Hiroshima: Taiwan attended Hiroshima’s annual peace memorial ceremony for the first time on Wednesday, marking a historic moment as its top envoy to Japan, Lee Yi-yang, joined representatives from 120 countries to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing. The event, held at the city’s Peace Memorial Park, was attended by approximately 55,000 people, including Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.

According to Focus Taiwan, Lee was among the special guests invited by Hiroshima to honor the victims and survivors of the nuclear attack on August 6, 1945. Prior to the official memorial, Lee was seen interacting with U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass. Additionally, Lee and his wife paid tribute by laying a wreath at the Peace Memorial Park a day before the ceremony.

Lee expressed to CNA that his participation was “extremely meaningful,” highlighting the importance of remembering and reflecting on the historical and humanitarian lessons from the Hiroshima bombing. He thanked Hiroshima for the invitation, emphasizing Taiwan’s solidarity with the international community.

Historically, Taiwan had not been invited to this annual event due to China’s stance on Taiwan’s political status. However, this year, on the 80th anniversary of the bombing, Hiroshima opted to include Taiwan to promote the spirit of coexistence and prosperity, as reported by Japanese media.

The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki by the U.S. in August 1945 were pivotal in ending World War II, resulting in Japan’s surrender on August 15, 1945. The bombings had devastating effects, leading to the deaths of hundreds of thousands, mostly civilians.

In Taipei, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expressed gratitude for Japan’s arrangements, enabling Lee’s attendance. MOFA also announced that Lee will attend a memorial ceremony in Nagasaki on August 9, following the city’s reversal of its previous decision not to invite Taiwan. Nagasaki Mayor Shiro Suzuki, initially citing diplomatic reasons, later changed his stance, allowing Taiwan’s participation in the upcoming event.