"The World and Japan" Database (Project Leader: TANAKA Akihiko)
Database of Japanese Politics and International Relations
National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS); Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia (IASA), The University of Tokyo

[Title] Youth Leader Fund for a World without Nuclear Weapons, Video Message from Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan to the launch event of the second cohort on July 31, 2025

[Place]
[Date] July 31, 2025
[Source] Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
[Notes]
[Full text]

Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu, United Nations Under-Secretary-General of Disarmament Affairs, distinguished participants of the second cohort of the Youth Leader Fund for a World Without Nuclear Weapons (YLF), ladies and gentlemen, I am IWAYA Takeshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan. I am pleased that the launch event of the second cohort of the YLF is being held today. I would like to congratulate all of you selected from among the many applicants to participate in this second cohort. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to the United Nations officials for their dedication in coordinating this program.

Under the current severe international situation, nuclear disarmament and non- proliferation are becoming increasingly important challenges for the future of humanity. As the starting point for all efforts toward a "world without nuclear weapons," it is crucial to convey the reality of the atomic bombings to the world. It was based on this belief that the government of Japan launched the YLF.

Next month will mark the 80th year since the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. As the Hibakusha are aging, the role of members of younger generations, such as yourselves, is becoming even more significant in passing on the realities of the atomic bombings and in conveying them throughout the world.

Through this program, I hope that you will deepen your thoughts on what you can and should do to contribute to nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. I also expect that you will build a global network of future leaders sharing the common goal of saving humanity from nuclear weapons.

This program is filled with these aspirations and hopes of our country. I would like to conclude my remarks by expressing my hope that many seeds will be sown toward a "world without nuclear weapons" and a plentiful harvest will be obtained in the future. Thank you for your attention.