Greeting Message from Consul-General Takeuchi
Message from Mrs. Midori Takeuchi, Consul General of
Japan at the 75th Anniversary of the End of WWII
2020/8/14
We mark this 75th anniversary of the end of World
War II in the midst of a fight against COVID-19.
Thinking of the suffering and great loss of precious lives, I would like to
convey my grief and offer profound condolences for all victims of World War II,
both civilian and military, in all corners of Asia and the world, of the atomic
bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, air raids on Tokyo and other cities, and
the ground battle of Okinawa, among others.
With deep regret and sincere apology since then, Japan has firmly upheld the
principle that any disputes must be settled peacefully and diplomatically,
based on the rule of law and not through the use of force or aggression, and
reached out to other countries to do the same. We have pledged our
efforts toward building peace and prosperity of the world and never again
engaging in war, believing the world should renounce colonialism and embrace
the right of self-determination. We remember and deeply appreciate the
goodwill and support so kindly given to us for the reconstruction of our
country, so we are fully determined to extend the same generosity to others in
need.
Once foes, the United States and Japan have now become trusted allies.
For this, we pay tribute to our predecessors for their wisdom, courage, and
vision, and to the efforts of our governments and people of both our
countries. Based on our shared commitment to common values such as
democracy, respect for human rights, and the rule of law based on an
international order, our Alliance has played and will continue to play an integral
role in ensuring peace and security for our two countries, while realizing our
common vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Our Alliance is
strong, broader and more essential today than ever.
Since my arrival in Colorado as Consul General, I have met so many people who
have learned the lessons of history and take action to build a better
future. I endeavor to work closely and passionately with them and will
forever be an ardent learner of Japanese American history, having great respect
for the sacrifice of the Nisei veterans to prove their loyalty to this nation,
the success of the redress movement to further strengthen its democracy, and
the younger generations who carry on this legacy. Between our countries,
people to people exchange and sister city relations also help pave the way in
building a strong human foundation for peace. On this hallowed
anniversary, I remain determined in these ways to work toward promoting greater
peace and prosperity of the world.
I believe in hope for the future, and we shall overcome. We shall
overcome the impact of this current pandemic that is inflicting such tremendous
damage. Japan, the United States, and all countries of the world will
work together, guided by persistent wisdom and science, to fight this crisis. I
would like to renew again my appreciation for the medical workers and all those
on the front lines of this battle, the essential workers and people who support
our daily life. I am grateful for the efforts of governors, local leaders
and other authorities in charge who continue to engage with this difficult
situation, and pray for the safety and health of all of you.
Midori Takeuchi
Consul-General of Japan in Denver
August 15, 2020
