May 10, 2016

Rep. Mark Takano Applauds President Obama’s Decision to Visit Hiroshima

Washington DC –Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) released the following statement after the White House announced President Obama will visit Hiroshima, Japan, later this month. 

“I strongly support President Obama’s decision to become the first sitting American president to visit Hiroshima, Japan. The bombing of Hiroshima is perhaps the world’s most poignant reminder of the complexities of war and the unequaled destruction caused by nuclear weapons. Given the mounting challenges to global peace and security, this is an important opportunity to reflect on the consequences of war and remind the world of what is at stake.

“When I first visited the site in 2002, I developed a deeper and more meaningful connection to the cost of war and significance of nuclear nonproliferation. Every world leader with access to nuclear weapons should develop that same connection. I expect President Obama, and other leaders who follow in his footsteps, will benefit from the perspective that only a visit to Hiroshima can provide.

“A tour of Hiroshima is not an apology on America’s behalf, it is a message to the world that America appreciates its role in maintaining global stability and controlling the spread of nuclear weapons. I applaud President Obama for his continued leadership on the world stage.”  

Last month, Rep. Takano sent a letter to the president and delivered a floor speech urging him to visit Hiroshima during his trip to Japan for the G-7 summit.

Press Contact

Josh Weisz, josh.weisz@mail.house.gov, 202-225-2305