The Prime Minister Attends the Memorial Ceremony for the War Dead

On August 15, 2024, Prime Minister Kishida attended the annual memorial ceremony for the war dead held at the Nippon Budokan, in the gracious presence of Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan.

August 15 has been designated as the Day to Commemorate the War Dead and Pray for Peace, in order to pay respect to those who lost their lives in World War II and to pray for peace.

Prime Minister Kishida, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President of the House of Councillors, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, representatives of related organizations, and bereaved family members participated in the ceremony. The participants offered their heartfelt respects to all those who lost their lives in the War.

Following Prime Minister Kishida's address, all participants offered a minute of silent prayer, before the address by His Majesty the Emperor. Afterwards, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President of the House of Councillors, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and the representative of the bereaved family members each gave a memorial address. The participants then offered flowers.