Bangladesh
Iajuddin Ahmad, President
02 August 2003
I welcome the week-long World Conference 2003 against Atomic and Hydrogen Bombs scheduled to be held in Hiroshima and Nagasaki from 2nd to 9th August.
Challenges to Peace and Security can only be faced through international cooperation, dialogue, partnership and shared responsibilities. Such Conferences go a long way in the promotion of a culture of cooperation and coordination. To this end we would like to extend our support towards the successful outcome of this Conference.
Our support towards initiatives and measures for attaining global peace and security also stems from our constitutional requirements. We have based our International Relations on the Principles and Charter of the UN. The Constitution of Bangladesh - the supreme law of the land, enjoins us to renounce the use of force in international relations and strive for general and complete disarmament. Being signatories to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) our commitment towards global cooperation for international security and peace is absolute and total.
On this occasion our common resolve should be to work collectively to free the world from nuclear weapons. Let us join hands for the protection and promotion of our collective interest of achieving socio-economic development through international cooperation. Development cannot be achieved without creating an environment of peace, security and stability. This conference through awareness building had a positive role to play in our efforts at attaining global peace and security.
I wish the Conference all success.
Laos
Khamtay Siphandone, President
(Unofficial Translation)
Vientiane, 15 July 2003
Message in Solidarity of the 2003 International Conference on Anti Atomic Bomb and Hydrogen
On behalf of the Government and the Lao people, I am glad to convey my warm gratitude to delegations participating in the 2003 International Conference on Anti Atomic Bomb and Hydrogen to commemorate the horrible danger of the bomb and the suffering endured by the Japanese people, especially the 290,000 remaining victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Nowadays, the world situation continues to undergo rapid and complex changes, and the struggle of the world community for maintaining peace after the World War Two is more important that ever for peace-loving and fair-minded human being. The Government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic has always condemned the use of weapons of mass destruction, which would only cause the loss of life and property to innocent people. It is well known that the Lao People's Democratic Republic is a Party to the "Convention on Nuclear Test Ban" and "the Convention on Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons." Our Lao people will spare no efforts together with the world community to contribute to the protection of lasting peace in the world.
I warmly welcome the theme of this International Conference: "For world peace, free of nuclear weapons and war", "Together ban the development or the use of nuclear weapons and destroy them", "Together fight against war and protect peace". The Government and the Lao multi-ethnic people believe that through concerted efforts of the world community, who love peace and understand deeply the danger of atomic bomb war, this conference will be able to send a strong signal and prevent the recurrence of such a disastrous war from happening to the Japanese people and the world populace at large.
May I wish a brilliant success to the Conference.
Malaysia
Dr. Mahathir Bin Mohamad, Prime Minister
I am pleased to convey a message to the 2003 World Conference against Atomic and Hydrogen Bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, on 3 to 9 August 2003 and to affirm the plea of the Conference that the bombings on these two cities, 58 years ago, should not be repeated ever again.
Nuclear weapons pose the greatest threat to human existence as evident by the devastation from the nuclear bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima. Nuclear disarmament must thus be accorded the highest priority by mankind in our efforts to secure international peace and security.
Malaysia strongly supports the agenda for a nuclear weapons-free world, through the multilateral process. The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) remains the cornerstone whereby this objective could be achieved.
In the pursuit of a world free from nuclear weapons, Malaysia has achieved its objective of turning South East Asia into a Nuclear Weapons Free Zone. However, we feel deeply disheartened over the lack of progress by Nuclear Weapons States to pursue negotiations on effective measures to put an end to the nuclear arms race and to commit themselves to nuclear disarmament.
The determination of Nuclear Weapons States to maintain their arsenal of nuclear weapons and to develop new forms of nuclear weapons stems from the false notion that these weapons will assure them of their security. On the contrary, such action would only heighten the climate of mistrust and apprehension, and contribute to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The path to peace and security lies not in armament, but through the establishment for a more equitable and inclusive international system.
I wish your Conference every success and hope that your deliberations could contribute to the promotion of nuclear weapons free world.
24 July 2003
Sweden
Goran Pesson, Prime Minister
17July 2003
I would like to express my deepest respect for your dedicated work towards a world free from nuclear weapons. Conferences like this help to create an awareness of disarmament and non-proliferation efforts in the field of weapons of mass destruction. In addition it helps to create an opinion against these weapons. It is important that the politicians, as well as the public around the world learn from the horrific experiences of the people of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
In order to make the world safer we need reductions in nuclear weapons arsenals. However, thousands of nuclear weapons remain on hair-trigger alert. In some countries there is a tendency to accord nuclear weapons a growing importance in military doctrines and postures. This is not only detrimental to international obligations, but also unacceptable and a source of great concern.
International disarmament, non-proliferation and a world free of weapons of mass destruction are long-standing priorities for the Swedish government. To reach these goals multilateral solutions are necessary. It is vital that all countries adhere to the existing multilateral treaties on nuclear weapons. We must also continue working on the reinforcement of, and compliance with those treaties.
On the basis of a Swedish initiative earlier this year, the European Union adopted Basic Principles for a Strategy and an Action Plan against weapons of mass destruction. This has strengthened the EU common policy on weapons of mass destruction. It also shows that there is a strong will within the European Union to address threats posed by these weapons.
Another evidence of the commitment of the Swedish government to the question is that we have decided to form an independent International Commission on Weapons of Mass Destruction under the leadership of Dr. Hans Blix, former head of UNMOVIC (United Nations Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission). The Commission will address and analyse questions regarding weapons of mass destruction. The work of the Commission will hopefully give new impetus to international efforts against these weapons.
Certainly, much work remains until the world is free from nuclear weapons. This is why all of us must continue our efforts, each one doing what we can to reach the goal. The dedicated work of people like yourself is an inspiration for Sweden in our efforts to make nuclear weapons a phenomenon of the past.
Thailand
Thaksin Shinawatra, Prime Minister
I wish to express once again my solidarity with the people of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in commemorating the tragic memory of the consequences of war and the horror of nuclear bombs. On behalf of the people and the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand, I would like to join all peace-loving peoples participating in the World Conference against Atomic and Hydrogen Bombs in manifesting our collective determination to ensure world peace and bring about the total elimination of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.
In our efforts to strengthen the global partnership against war and nuclear weapons, Thailand has continuously worked closely with both civil society and the international community towards the twin goals of disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
Our shared endeavour to achieve the goal of a nuclear-free world must be cherished and nurtured. What we are doing is not simply for ourselves, but also for the safety and security of the generations to come. Thailand is presently working closely with other ASEAN member states to strengthen the South-East Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) and encourage all Nuclear Weapon States to accede to the Protocol of Bangkok Treaty. We will continue to cooperate with the international community to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons, to move towards a total ban on all kinds of nuclear testing, and to completely eliminate existing stockpiles of such weapons.
On this occasion, I would like to extend my warm regards to the people of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and to extend my best wishes for the success of the World Conference against Atomic and Hydrogen Bombs.
Vietnam
Tran Duc Luong, President
(Unofficial translation)
Hanoi, July 14th 2003
On the occasion of the 2003 World Conference against A & H Bombs to be held in the two cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan from August 3rd to 9th 2003, on behalf of the Vietnamese people and in my own name, I extend to all international and Japanese delegates my warmest greetings.
As a nation that has suffered great sacrifices in the struggle for national independence and reunification, we are aware of the serious consequences of wars on human-beings, society and environment caused by weapons of mass destruction, including chemicals such as Agent Orange/dioxin. We are, therefore, sympathetic with and supportive of the just struggle of the people and progressive and peace-loving forces in Japan and the world over for prevention of nuclear wars and total elimination of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction.
On behalf of the Vietnamese people, I avail myself of the opportunity provided by this forum to express sincere thanks to the people and peace loving forces of Japan and the world over for their valuable support for the Vietnamese people in the struggle for national independence in the past and in the cause of peaceful construction of our country at present.
It is our confidence that the concerted efforts made by peace loving forces all over the world will greatly contribute to preventing the holocaust of Hiroshima and Nagasaki from happening again on our planet.
The success of the Conference will be a source of encouragement to the movement of the progressive and peace loving forces in Japan, in the region and throughout the world in the common struggle for peace, stability, cooperation and development.
May the Conference be a great success!
May the friendship relation for peace, cooperation and development between the people of Vietnam and the people of Japan be further consolidated and developled.
Egypt
Ambassador Mahmoud Mubarak,
Assistant Foreign Minister for Middle East affairs
Thank you for your invitation to take part in the world conference against Atomic and Hydrogen Bomb, but unfortunately I will have certain urgent matters that necessitate my being in Egypt in the same period. Please accept my apology for not attending the conference this year, and I wish you very successful and fruitful meeting.
Malaysia
Ambassador Rastam Mohd Isa
Permanent Representative of Malaysia to the United Nations New York
I had been engaged in a number of activities and had been hesitant to commit myself because of other forthcoming engagements. Unfortunately, I now have to be in Malaysia during the period of the Conference. Hence, it is with a deep sense of regret that I have to inform you that I would not be able to attend the Conference. I am convinced that the Conference under your able stewardship would be a success as in previous years and would further contribute to the global efforts on nuclear disarmament.
I wish you and your colleagues great success in your endeavours.
Jayantha Dhanapala
Former Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations
The global situation has reached a new crisis. For the first time since the end of the Cold War nuclear weapons are being given a new legitimacy and the danger of the horrors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki being re-enacted is frighteningly real. On the one hand we have seen the horizontal proliferation of nuclear weapons to South Asia and are now confronted with the threat of proliferation in North-east Asia and Central Asia with the terrorist uses of nuclear weapons lurking in the background. On the other hand we see a re-emphasis on the possession, research and development of new types of nuclear weapons and actual war-fighting use of nuclear weapons.
In the triumphant march of civilization we have witnessed the total banning of two categories of weapons of mass destruction - biological weapons and chemical weapons. But in a senseless march of folly we see selfish national interests prevail over co-operative security in the retention and extension of nuclear arsenals.
It is therefore civil society across this globalised world - which UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan and the New York Times have called the 'other super-power'- that must now assert itself to ensure that governments act urgently to delegitimise nuclear weapons and work for their total elimination. A popular movement led courageously by NGOs overcame vested interests to usher in the Mine Ban Convention. We can do the same with regard to nuclear weapons and the time for this is now.
New Zealand
Barney Richards
National Secretary, Peace Council Aotearoa-New Zealand
We must never give up the fight for the elimination of nuclear weapons. We owe it to those who have suffered in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. And we owe it to future generations.
R. E. Gillespie
Assistant Secretary, The Central Amalgamated Workers Union The Central Amalgamated Workers Union
The Central Amalgamated Workers Union which represents large numbers of New Zealand workers employed in Local Government, Road Construction, Ambulances, Road Transport, Building Construction, and the area of Conservation conveys greeting to you on the occasion of The 2003 World Conference Against A & H Bombs.
Recent events in the Middle East and Iraq have again emphasised the need for progressive people to remain alert to the every present threat of a resurgence of the construction and displacement of nuclear weapons.
The mutterings and actions of the present regime in United States of America could well lead to the fostering of a new arms race, which must be resisted.
Our union has a slogan "Peace Jobs and Democracy", without peace there will not be jobs for our people without jobs there can be no democracy.
Our best wishes for a successful Conference.
Arthur Quinn
Convenor, Waiwhetu - Lower Hutt Peace Group
Thank you again for sponsoring an international conference for peace and disarmament on the anniversary of the criminal bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. This is a very important event because it reminds the whole world of the horror of these weapons and the fact that they have been used with devastating effect against so many people.
It is also important not to forget that these weapons as long as they remain in the arsenals of nay countries are a threat to all people. We note that the USA is continuing to develop more nuclear weapons improving their utility, and killing capacity. They are continually used as a means of exerting political pressure on countries that without the same arsenals of threatening weaponry.
This year has witnessed another attack and invasion of a country, Iraq, on the premise of false information continually used by the media in its propaganda to gain support for this illegal war, conducted in violation of the United Nation's Organization's constitution.
Now there is the problem of rebuilding the infrastructure of the country, and more than that among the People of Iraq, that can only be achieved through the withdrawal of foreign forces, and the institution of democratic Government and social institutions.
At the same time there are threats being made against Iran and closer to Japan North Korea. We presume the people of Japan would not welcome the creation of nuclear weapons in North Korea but believe in the principle of equality in international relationships; equality in the abolition of nuclear weapons, and in honouring the UN principle of not committing aggression on other countries.
cWe would particularly like to draw attention to delegates our concern at the continued incarceration of Mordechai Vanunu, a "whistle-blower" who told the world of the nuclear weapon factor in Israel, that poses a threat particularly to Middle East countries. Mordechai will on 30 of September have spent 17 years in captivity, 11 and a half of them in solitary confinement. We have had many letters from him, the last early this year, and can confirm his strong opposition to nuclear weapons. We have made frequent approaches to the Israeli Government for his release pointing out that time is running out for them if they want to show any compassion, but compassion has been a scarce quality in their measure of justice.
Mordechai is due for release on 22nd April 2004. Free Vanunu Committees particularly in the US and Britain, have appealed for funds to appropriately welcome Mordechai back to freedom and assist his return to civilian society, recognizing that this will not be easy after so long in prison. Any help that delegates can organize in their respective countries will be greatly appreciated and recognition of this anti-nuclear-weapon campaigner who has sacrificed so much in his continuing struggles.
In conclusion we wish you an enjoyable and fruitful commemoration of the atrocities wrought on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and stimulate the struggle for the abolition of all nuclear weapons.
Australia
People for Nuclear Disarmament
Although People for Nuclear Disarmament are unable to send a representative to the World Conference Against A & H Bombs, we wish to express our strong support for the World Conference.
In view of the attack on Iraq; the horrific weapons used by the US and its Allies; and the appalling slaughter of hundreds of innocent civilians, make it vital that we renew of efforts to prevent the use of Weapons of Mass Destruction, and demand the elimination of Nuclear Weapons and Weapons of Mass Destruction.
"A peaceful world without Nuclear Weapons and Weapons of Mass Destruction", is also PNDs message.
Pauline Mitchell
Secretary, Campaign for International Co-operation and Disarmament
The members and supporters of the Campaign for International Co-operation and Disarmament stand with the Japanese people in commemorating the 58th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
The United States used the atomic weapon in 1945 and demonstrated the ultimate in weapons of mass destruction. While these terrible acts on the 6th and 9th of August led to the nuclear arms race, it also gave birth to the huge peace and nuclear disarmament movements world-wide led by the Japanese peace forces and Hibakusha which have never ceased in their efforts to alert the world's people to the dangers of nuclear weapons and the necessity of banning them of all time.
Through the efforts of the Japanese and world peace forces various international treaties were made that should have led to nuclear disarmament. It was our hope that the passing of the 20th century would see the passing of nuclear weapons from the military arsenals of the world's countries; however we are now nearly four years into the 21st century and these treaties lie in tatters as the United States has abandoned the 'deterrence' theory and plans to develop 'mini-nukes' to make them more acceptable and to be used in conventional warfare. These 'mini-nukes' will have a quarter of the power of the bombs that destroyed Hiroshima and Nagasaki 58 years ago.
To achieve our goal of a peaceful world, and a world without nuclear weapons and the danger of nuclear contamination, we need to continue and enlarge our movements world-wide to deal with these new conditions. The World Conference against A & H Bombs will again initiate this movement with the assistance of the Japanese people on whose soil the world's first nuclear weapons were used in 1945.
We send greetings to all the participants at the conference.
Laos
Sangsomsak
Acting president, Lao Committee for Peace and Solidarity
The using of the most devastated weapons in the world war of the last century pitifully caused dreadful damage for innumerable people of era. Furthermore, as a result of the nuclear war, the radiations from nuclear bombs continue being haul to the post war generations.
Facing to this event the population of the present world should be solidare together and prematurely stop it. That's why I, on behalf of the Lao Committee for Peace and the Lao people of all ethnics, have great honor to warmly congratuate you and Japanese people to successful organize the year 2003 World Conference against Atomic and Hydrogen Bombs.
I highly value the significant conference we all avow that peace and justice loving people in the world wish to avoid the manace of the most destructive bombs and do not like to see the history to be repeated.
I do believe that, under your leading, this important conference can successfully last according to the target and without difficulties.
Finally, I wish you furitful success and good health.
Sri Lanka
Doraisamy-Kailanathan, Democratic Workers Congress
Our President, as Member of Parliament of Socialist Democratic Republic of Sri Lanka in his addressing at the Assembly conveys the grievances of the Victims of the War, in our Country as well as internationally.
Our delegate Mr. Sandanam Balakrishnan, who participated in the 2002 World Conference, gathered several issues related to the War victims and about the anticipated Peace Progress in Sri Lanka. He has even addressed to the Assembly in Hiroshima during the Conference and revealed of his movement and the vision.
Rathnarajah
Secretary, Peace Resource Development Foundation
We the above-mentioned social service organization wish to greet your organization for organizing a world conference against A and H bombs for a peaceful and promising world without such weapons.
In these circumstances, we wish to show our support, solidarity on your mission and wish to participate in the peace march and in the conference. Also, we are interacted in organizing a seminar photo exhibition and a signature campaign supporting your worthy attempt to prevent A and H Bombs.
We as a Sri Lankan also directly and in-directly affected by the civil war took place in our country for decades.
In this connection, we would be much grateful to your good self in you send us all propaganda materials and application forms for enable us to participate in you Peace conference.
India
L. Sanatombi Devi, Manipur Mahila Kalyan Samiti
Peace loving people of the world individually and collectively work for abolition of nuclear weapons and also for general disarmament with an aim to ensure that there will be no more Hiroshima and Nagasaki and also no more Iraq.
Madamakkal Mathew Lawrence
Vice President, Center of Indian Trade Unions (CITU)
On behalf of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) I send warm greetings to the 2003 World Conference against A & H Bombs. Our organisation believe that the root cause for armaments and war is the capitalist society, which promote urge to aggrandise and cornering of world's resources to the exclusion of working class and common people.
Manufacture and sale of arms and creating conditions for conflicts worldwide serve both as means and ends to capitalistic aggrandisement and subjugation of people. Our organisation is committed to bring about social change in which armaments and war will have no place.
I wish all success to the 2003 World Conference against A & H Bombs.
Brijendra Singh Meel
Electricity Employee Federation of India (CITU)
The working class in India strongly denounces the mind set of nation states, unmindful of the world public opinion, country after country had embarked upon acquiring the knowledge and scientific know-how of producing nuclear weapons so as to get the so called status of nuclear state. The worldwide campaign against the A&H Bombs and the demand that all countries must carry out total abolition of nuclear weapons, must be pressed forward intensively and vigorously.
Maha Singh
Air Corporation Employees Union (CITU)
It is universal trust that death does not differentiate any caste, religion and the country, which you belong. Peace is not only the need of Japan but it is the need of whole world today. Our coming generation should live without the fear of nuclear weapons and live their life happily and prosperously. We all should have to work on this line.
Balkrishna Kurvey
President, Indian Institute for Peace, Disarmament & Environmental Protection / Director, No More Hiroshima No More Nagasaki Peace Museum
World Conference against A & H Bombs in vary useful event where peace loving people from all parts of the world are assemble. This is international platform to put our grievances and concern against A & H Bombs. Mutual understanding and exchange of views and opinion among delegates from all parts of the world is fruitful to chalk out the national strategy in respective countries as per local situation and condition.
Through A & H Bombs conference, world is reminded of the horrible effects of nuclear weapons and condemnation of the country, which has dropped the bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Public opinion could easily be galvanized by this conference, which will create political will for annihilation of nuclear weapons from the world.
The work of World Conference Against A & H Bombs is very useful for the countries like India when we are facing the nuclear holocaust. We have to learn the lesson from Hiroshima and Nagasaki and work for peace in the world.
Madhav G. Chitre
President, All India Peace & Solidarity Organization Jalgoan Dist. Unit
Smita M. Chitre
All India Peace & Solidarity Organization Jalgoan Dist. Unit
We have received your letter and response form and the programme of the 2003 World Conference against A & H bombs. Whenever I get some letter or correspondence from Japan in respect of our peace movements and agitation, struggle for the peace and welfare of mankind in the whole world at large. We feel ourselves in Japan a peace loving country.
We remembered our days in Tokyo, Hiroshima and Nagasaki during the conference of 1999. We both were very much impressed by actually experiencing the sentiments and attempts of people of Japan against the war and nuclear weapons. We had returned to India with thoughts regarding anti-war movements. We were charged for work for world peace and for struggle against A & H bombs.
In the year 1999 when we had visited Japan there was tense atmosphere and war like sinario between India and Pakistan. Fortunately there was no much trouble for the World peace, but now in the year 2003 World has witnessed Iraq War. It is obvious that some miscreants are trying to disturb the harmony in the world. Some are playing politics for their own interest but purposely ignoring the peace in the World and if there are some such Nations and the ruler it becomes the duty of the activist of peace movement, that they should be alert and vigilant, so that there would not be any disturbance for world peace.
In the ensuing conference against A & H Bombs during August-2003 many dignitaries and intellectual personalities will gather in Japan. During grass root sessions and discussions in the conference many important resolutions could be passed. We promise that, our organization (AIPSO) could adopt these resolutions and work on them for promoting cause of world peace.
One day would certainly come when we would get success and war mongers would be defeated. We always remember the victims of atomic bomb attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. We cannot forget the hospitality of the Japanese, which we experienced.
We both and the office bearers and the members of all India peace and solidarity organization, Jalgeon unit wish the conference all success. We wish the people of Japan all prosperity and happiness.
J.Narayana Rao
General Secretary, All India Peace & Solidarity Organisation
Dear comrade,
Shortly the World Conference against A&H Bombs is going to be held. I wish the conference a grand success. This year the conference assumes addedimportance after the shameless and blatant attack on Iraq by UK and US.the occfupation of Iraq inviolation of International Law and the World Public opinion is most condemnable and this behaviour of these powers is a threat to world peace and an incouragement to the forces of violence and wars. I hope that the Conference will take necessary decisions to intensify our campaign for elimination of nuclear weapons and also condemn the UK & US.
Nepal
K.P.Sharma Oli
AAPSO Nepal
Our organization is always committed to work together with you for a peaceful and promising world without war and nuclear weapons. We think, this time is need for complete disarmament including denuclearization and dismantling of military bases. The whole people of the world want peace not war. We support and express solidarity for Hibakushas and wish the success of 2003 world peace conference against A and H Bombs.
Surya Lal
President, Committee for Peace Action
As the American forces with its co-partner's attacks on Iraq is bitterly denounced all over the world including USA and UK itself, the demonstrations and rallies against this war move, in the different parts of Nepal too are continuing and all the sections of Nepalese life are heavily demanding to stop the war immediately.
In this connection, our organization also carried two main programmes-one in February 27 (The rally with corner meetings against the American war hysteria and its preparations against Iraq and North Korea) and secondly on March 19 (The demonstration against the attack on Iraq and the burning of the evil bloody body of President Bush with the Slogans: (Stop attack on Iraq, Hands off from gulf, Down with imperialism, No blood shade, Save humanity and culture, We want peace not war, etc).
cWe are sure that in the coming World Conference-2003 Against A&H Bombs, the participants will seriously discuss the current world situation and will announce the solid solutions to end the war culture and to establish peace culturec
Bamesh Shrestha
Peace Wave Nepal
I take this opportunity to contribute a message to the world conference against Atomic and Hydrogen bombs. Through the conference I want to pass the message to the world to have practice of compassion, love, kindness and developing sense of respect for others. We must choose the path of compassion and by doing so, peach world prevail on earth, nuclear weapons must be abandoned. We shall put our voice more forcefully to ask for peace in the world.
Events in the world and nation are unfolding quickly and people form all walks and asks for peace, now it's time to speak boldly and honestly about the alternatives we face by participating world conference against atomic and hydrogen bombs.
Kopila Sapkota
Only by destroying Hydrogen and Atomic Bombs will not abolish the threat of war. So we must change ourselves form the beneath of the heart and try to be catalyst to change other's attitude. Only then will we achieve real sense of peace.
Roshan Kumar Shrestha
All Nepalese people pray for a world at peace. We dedicate our lives for reconciliation among people. We join all person of goodwill in this sublime effort to eliminate Atomic & Hydrogen bombs in the military arsenal of nations. For achieve real sense of peace, we have to change ourselves form the beneath of heart.
Committee for Peace Action
Although the imperialist attack on Iraq is a heavy blow to the world peace and the world under the imperialist pressure is now in a critical and challenging position, we hope, the world conference will make a landmark history in exercising the global unity and strengthening the peace front. We also hope, the solidarity gathering will ensure the bright future of the world and the world free of nuclear weapons and wars. We also express our strong solidarity for the Hibakushas. (For your information, we would like to read our full message in the plenary session.)
Pakistan
Mir Nawaz Khan Marwat
Assistant Secretary General, World Muslim Congress/ Former Federal Minister, Government of Pakistan/ Advocate, Supreme Court of Pakistan/ International President, World Conference on Religion and Peace/ Moderator, Asian Conference on Religion and Peace
Wish you all in high spirit and excellent health. With reference to your kind invitation extended for attending 2003 World Conference against A&H Bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945. I have to intimate your goodself as under:
I fully agree with the aims and objectives of your august organization and highly appreciate holding World Conference against A&H Bombs which caused great human tragedy and devastation ever witnessed by mankind. It is most condemnable to prepare weapons of mass destruction for the destruction and inhilation of humanity. As matter of fact we should have joined hands to work for the betterment of human race all over the world with out any discrimination and should have restrained the production of WMD.
I strongly oppose the production and use of weapons of mass destruction viz Nuclear, Biological and Chemical weapons. The present stock of WMD available on this planet can destroy the world with in very short span of time.
It is also pertinent to mention that these dangerous weapons if used any where in the world will engulf the whole world as we have common space and horizon. Thus even those who use these weapons will themselves be victims of its radiation.
Hence, I am of the strongest view that all weapons of Mass Destruction should be destroyed and its production should be banned.
I join you all and share the sorrow, grief and concern of all peace loving people of the world and express my fullest sympathy with the victims and sufferers of Atom Bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Let us join our sincere, selfless concerted efforts together for the safety of Human race and divert our funds to eradicate poverty, ignorance, disease and injustice in all its forms. Let us strive to make this world free of WMD.
Let me express that human beings are the best of God's creation and vicegerent. God loves human beings. Thus to please our Creator let us love humankind.
Through your august organization I appeal to all the religionists of different faiths to come forward and save this planet from destruction through our joint and ceaseless efforts for peace, harmony and brotherhood. I on my own behalf and on behalf of World Muslim Congress express full solidarity with all the participants for achieving the noble goal of peace.
Please convey my fullest co-operation and profound regards to the organizers and participants of this conference. I pray for the success of this grand conference.
I shall be obliged if this message of mine is read out in Hiroshima and Nagasaki on the relevant dates in case I could not attend personally. With sincere prayers for peace and profound regards.
Muhammad Nawaz & Tehmina Siddique
Global Welfare Foundation Pakistan
Peace cause is the best policy in the world because war is a dirty word for peacemakers. Every war ends with peace negotiations and vise versa.
Kazakhstan
Zoya Mikhailovna Simbirtseva & Tatyana Aleksandrovna Lukina
International Antinuclear movement "Nevada - Semipalatinsk"
We are for a Peaceful World Without War and Nuclear Weapons and For its(weapons) liquidation. We are very thankful for your constancy in searching the goal - Creation the Peace all over the World. We are with you, and you are with us!
Russia
Milia Kabirova
Organization of Victims of Nuclear Tests, "Aigul"
Let's unite our efforts and safeguard a nuclear free future. Let's make our governments accountable for their actions. Let's make our governments ensure the ecological safety of the world by observing the treaties. We, the victims of the past, don't want to be the victims of the on-going exposure and are not going to be the victims of the future.
Germany
Guido Grunewald
International speaker, German Peace Society-United War Resiters (DFG-VK),
New-style wars which violate international law - official threats of nuclear strikes - development of new "usable" nuclear weapons - billions for war,the military and armaments - No money for social security, education and fighting against poverty - reduction and neglect of fundamental freedoms in the wake of "fighting terrorism" - this is the reality which we have to deal with day for day.
The self-appointed world arbiter und in its own opinion "benign hegemon" USA is at this moment the most powerful driving force of those disastrous developments. But we should be careful not to be misguided: Both the European government and the government of Japan finally focus on military means as the decisions for building up a strong military force of the European Union and for sending troops to Irak for "assisting in rebuilding the country" demonstrate. The real separating line is not that between the "dynamic orld power" USA and the "old Europe" or the "new Japan" but between the ruling elites and all people which are ready to work on crises and problems without using economic and military violence.
The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki was a brutal consequence of a military power game. The hibakushas whose continuous efforts for a world free of nuclear Weapons I appreciate and admire are the most powerful witnesses for the pain and human destruction, which war and the use of ultimate weapons generate. Let's fight together for a world, which solves conflicts non-violently using creative fantasy and employing stubborn perseverance and which enables every human being to live with dignity.
I wish the 2003 World Conference Against A & H-Bomb all possible success. I regret that I can't be with you. The World Conference is an unique event which remembers continuously the suffering of the hibakushas and calls persistently for a world free of nuclear weapons and - timely - free of wars.
Austria
Hiroshima group-Vienna
Stop the war-as people in the whole world were in the streets to stop the war against Iraq on Feb.15. Also in Vienna the Peace Forces were able to mobilize more than 50,000 participants on this international day of action. The new nuclear US doctrine announced by the Bush administration was and is one of the greatest concern to people. The peace and antiwar movement in Austria is strongly opposing the openly launched use of nuclear weapons by the US government as also the plans to intensify the research on the so called "mini nukes". No to war means also no to nuclear weapons. Our demand is for a nuclear weapon free world.
France
French CGT
The French CGT congratulates the Organising Committee of the World Conference for its commitment to the cause of nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament.
It thanks the Japanese hosts for their unfailing commitment to the fight for the elimination of atomic and hydrogen bombs.
58 years after the Hiroshima and Nagasaki martyrs, the danger of nuclear weapons and nuclear war has not disappeared.
Since the first conference in 1955, progress has been made in response to concerns and mobilisation of public opinion.
There have been agreements on limiting weapons, disarmament and non-proliferation and for international security and stability.
But these agreements, that are not accompanied by sufficiently binding measures, have not stopped other countries from having access to nuclear arms and the emergence of new risks of major conflicts in the world.
In recent years, we have even observed an upsurge of the arms race and arms trade.
This is why the CGT agrees with the central theme of the World Conference, "For a peaceful world without war and nuclear weapons" and shares with you the following thoughts:
1. The causes of war often reside in unequal development and frustration created by the growth of poverty in the world.
Progressive forces throughout the world cannot be satisfied with the G8's most recent proposal for financing development by a percentage tax on the arms trade.
Peace will be won by concentrating all the potential that humanity possesses on social and cultural development of individuals and peoples.
This objective assumes that peoples' rights to their own development is really respected - and above all food security - and a commitment of all parties - and primarily most developed countries - to sharing wealth and respect by all States of fundamental human rights (freedoms, democracy, right to organise and associate).
Let us work towards global mobilisation, in order to renew international cooperation for globalisation based on commitments by States in major UN conferences (Geneva, Johannesburg and Kyoto), objectives asserted in major World and Continental Social Forums and proposals made by national and international trade unions and social organisations for fundamental rights, full employment and universal social protection.
2. War should be banned as an instrument for resolving political conflicts between States
The unilateralism and hegemonic desires of certain States should be fought.
Dozens of millions of men and women mobilised in all countries and all continents condemned the Anglo-American war against Iraq. That was a very important event.
This opposition to war strongly confirmed the supremacy of international law and the role of the UN over US unilateralism and hegemony regarding other countries of the world.
Let us reassert together the need for the United Nations and its organisations, based on the principles of its Charter and adapted in the way it functions, its resources and prerogatives to demands for transparency, democracy and fair sharing amongst all the Nations, which make it up.
3. For total elimination of nuclear weapons. Towards their universal abolition.
Workers and peoples have points on which they can intervene:
- universal nature of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons;
- winning the agreement of all States;
- demanding urgent signing and ratification of the nuclear test ban treaty without conditions and moratoria on experimental explosions.
Multilateral negotiations should start again for eliminating weapons of mass destruction, notably with the creation of a world monitoring system and for a treaty banning the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons.
In France, we are launching a new campaign for an end to military laboratory nuclear tests, aimed at more sophisticated weapons, and for their abolition.
We should advocate a binding agreement under UN auspices against the proliferation of missiles, in order to ensure that space is used for peaceful ends.
The current unstable international situation, that is full of risks, can change, provided that peace and democratic movements do their utmost to ensure that the voice of justice and social progress for all and everywhere is heard.
Let us launch new messages to peoples' hopes for peace.
Belgium
Pierre Pierart, AEPGN/ European Nuclear Test Ban Coalition
Nuclear weapons are an unbelievable and unacceptable danger all over the world. U.S. advocate the unthinkable use of nuclear weapons in their new policy planning documents for the development and use of new weapons, even against non nuclear states.
Best wishes for your 2003 Hiroshima & Nagasaki Days international joint action.
Switzerland
Rene Wadlow
Editor, and Representative to the United Nations, Geneva of the Association of World Citizens
May I, through you, send my best wishes to the participants in the 2003 World Conference. Although time has gone by since 1977 when I participated in the Conference, we still face the same basic questions of the abolition of nuclear weapons and the restructuring of the global society so that peace and justice may prevail.
I write to you while participation in a seminar in South Korea devoted to regional security questions. I need not point out to you in Japan the seriousness of the current situation. Regional affairs remain supreme in the minds of most world leaders. For the moment, the two Korean States, China, Russia and the USA are the key players in this drama. However, both Japan and Taiwan may be influenced by the results of the hesitant negotiations going on.
I believe that the situation of Northeast Asia security requires creative efforts on the part of non-government representatives and the development of open discussions. I hope that there will be time at the World Conference to consider this regional challenge. I would be pleased if I can help in any way to foreword such regional security dialogues.
U.K.
Bruce Kent, Chairman of Movement for the ABOLITION OF WAR
Never give up!
Demand that the nuclear weapon states honour their obligations to negotiate nuclear weapon abolition as ordered by the International Court of Justice 8 July 1996.
Stewart Kemp
Secretary, UK Nuclear Free Local Authorities & International Nuclear Free Zone Local Authorities
This is a message of solidarity and admiration for your tireless campaigning against nuclear weapons and the continuing threat such weapons pose to our very existence.
I regret that it will not be possible for our organisation to be represented at your conference this year but we wish all organisers and all conference participants good wishes for a successful event.
The new Century has started very badly with cruel wars and increasing risk of further nuclear weapons proliferation. The situation on the Indian Subcontinent and Korean Peninsula is very grave. Nuclear proliferation remains a risk in the Middle East - provoked in part by the nuclear weapons deployed there.
We must all continue to work with all people of goodwill for greater global msecurity through global confidence building measures and the reduction and elimination of all nuclear weapons.
U.S.A
Sallie E. Gratch
Founder, Project Kesher
I congratulate you on your 2003 Conference this summer. Your determined dedication to your work continues to inspire those around you who have supported your efforts over these many years. And in these troubled times, your work is more important than ever.
I wish you a successful Conference. May you attract a committed community of activists who can join you in carrying out your mission. I applaud you!
Claudia Peterson
Utah Down winder of Nevada Nuclear Testing
My thoughts will be with you and I hope that I will be invited again in the future and hopefully be able to return.
Good luck for a good and successful conference. With the situation in the world today it is more important than ever that we never forget what has happened and work to prevent it from happening again.
Alfred L. Marder
President, U.S. Peace Council
The Conference comes at a very critical period in the struggle against nuclear weapons and war itself. The illegal war of aggression by the United States on Iraq has emphasized the dangers of nuclear warfare, even frightening some into accepting the invasion as an attempt to rid the world of these weapons of mass destruction. Our joint task is to accelerate the campaign for the total abolition of these weapons.
We regret very much that the US Peace Council, despite its keen desire to participate, simply does not have the funds to send a representative to the Conference. Our very best wishes.
John Steinbach & Louise Franklin-Ramirez
Hiroshima/Nagasaki Peace Committee of the National Capital Area
The Hiroshima/Nagasaki Peace Committee of the National Capital Area stands in solidarity with the 2003 World Conference against A & H Bombs. The atomic bombings serve as a warning to humanity of the genocidal nature of nuclear weapons, and of the pressing need for international agreements for their abolishment. We remember the anniversary of the annihilation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki each year in order to renew our commitment to struggle for a world free from the threat of nuclear war. We link our work for nuclear disarmament with our opposition to the scourges of militarism, oppression, social injustice, and environmental degradation.
Miles Ashdown
I personally am strongly opposed to the use of atomic and hydrogen bombs. I traveled to Tinian Island recently, where the bombs "Little Boy" and "Fat Man" were assembled. "Enola Gay" and "Bock's Car" took off from the small Pacific island in 1945. I found myself disturbed that the United States would resort to killing hundreds of thousands of people over diplomacy. Today, the United States remains a strong nuclear power yet the Bush administration demands that other countries not have any atomic devices. It is important to world security that this event be covered, to raise awareness on the movement against atomic and hydrogen bombs.
Robert Nawrocki
Justifiable Films
My message, "Remember" which is the working title for the documentary.
Cuba
Humberto Hernandez
Secretary General, The Organization of Solidarity of the Peoples of Africa, Asia and Latin America (OSPAAAL)
The Organization of Solidarity of the Peoples of Africa, Asia and Latin America (OSPAAAL) feels very honored for having received the invitation to participate in the 2003 World Conference Against Atomic and Hydrogen Bombs to be held under the theme of "a world of peace, without war and without nuclear weapons."
It was the United States that in 1945 did not hesitate to drop atomic bombs on the defenseless populations of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and without the least justification. That government did so to demonstrate its capacity for a unilateral and arbitrary use of arms of such destructive power. Fifty-eight years later, headed by representatives of the ultra-right and the hawks of the North American military-industrial complex, that same government has set out to impose a nazi-fascist dictatorship on a global scale that will allow it absolute control over the destinies of our peoples, countries and resources.
We share with you the conviction that the convening of this conference will be of even greater significance that of those of the past. This is true given the dangers that posed to international stability and security following the illegal and unnecessary imperialistic aggression against Iraq, the manner in which International Law and the multilateral mechanisms of the United Nations designed to carry them out were mocked, and the unprecedented demonstrations around the world against the war where peoples cried out emphatically against similar acts of barbarism in whatever distant corner of the planet.
OSPAAAL is prevented from participating in such an important world conference due only to financial reasons. However, it forwards to you its support and solidarity with the objectives that compells this conference, wishes it the greatest success, and expresses the organizationLs support for the resulting efforts and initiatives. We are confident that this conference will serve to strengthen actions of networks and movements against war and imperialistic aggression.
Vernon Nichols
President, NGO Committee on Disarmament, Peace and Security
We wish to convey our wholehearted support for the 2003 World Conference against A & H Bombs. It is a vital focus for all those who seek to insure true human security through eliminating the greatest threat - nuclear weapons. Your witness will strengthen the impassioned calls for peace which have had an impact in the past year.
The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) has been eroded by the actions of a number of countries. Threatened actions are even more ominous. Both vertical and horizontal proliferation undermine it. One of the challenges before us is to mobilize the pressure of peace advocates to bring government policy, especially in the nuclear power states, back into support of full compliance with the NPT. Countries without nuclear weapons must be convinced to remain so for the benefit of their own, and all, peoples. Nuclear powers must be persuaded not to pursue new nuclear weapons whose development would dangerously increase the possibility of use.
Citizen action against war had demonstrated its wide international base. We must extend its reach into the broader populace. The 2003 World Conference can have a powerful effect in this work. Your involvement of young people is particularly inspiring. Apathy is an attitude we must overcome. Fear of terrorism needs to be directed against the greatest terror - nuclear weapons.
It is important for Japan and the world that Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution remain the effective support of peaceful policy that it has been. We commend your efforts toward this objective. International pressure must constrain ill-advised use of force by powerful countries. Your continuing contributions towards this goal are essential.
We extend our strong desires for the success and impact of the Conference.
E. Ariyadasa Vidyasekera
Secretary-Coordinator,Afro-Asian Peoples' Solidarity@Organization, Egypt
AAPSO continue to join with other likeminded organizations in their campaign for complete and comprehensive disarmament and total ban on Nuclear Weapons. In this context AAPSO expresses its outrage against the Bush administrations' pronouncement of possible use of nuclear weapons in a pre-emptive strike against so called rouge-states.
Ema Tagicakibau
Pacific Concerns Resource Center
May I take this opportunity on behalf of the Nuclear Free and Independent Pacific Movement to wish the Organizing Committee all the best for another successful convening of the World Conference against Atomic and Hydrogen Bombs and for congratulating your choice of another bold and assertive forums, the more we send our the message that peace loving people can will no longer tolerate a world held at ransom by a few selfish states that wish to advance their own interests at the expense of all others.
In an effort to share equally among the staff the benefits of our participation, PCRC will be represented this year by Peceli Rokotuivuna while Mr. Rotan comes from the Fiji Nuclear Test Veterans. Peceli's participation will serve a dual purpose of PCRC networking with our partners and the need to integrate young people into the Movement against Nuclear Weapons and War. We thank you again for bearing the costs of our participation.