[Provisional translation]

In the gracious presence of Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress, I hereby commence the annual National Memorial Ceremony for the War Dead.

During the war, more than three million Japanese fell on the extremely harsh battlefields or lost their lives amidst the ravages of war or in distant foreign lands in the war’s aftermath, thinking of their homeland and worrying about the future of their families. Here, before those souls, I offer my heartfelt prayers for their repose.

The peace and prosperity we enjoy at this moment was built atop the precious sacrifices of those souls who sacrificed their lives, which were irreplaceable. We will not forget this even for a moment. I express my deepest respect and gratitude once more.

Never again will we repeat the devastation of war.

Since the end of the war, Japan has consistently and assiduously walked the path of a country that abhors war and values peace. We have also devoted ourselves to world peace and prosperity. Humbly facing history, we are determined never to deviate from this steadfast course, no matter what the era may bring.

In this world in which conflicts have not yet ceased, Japan will make contributions to world peace and prosperity by earnestly working to tackle various issues, including the issue of poverty, which can become a hotbed of conflict. Moreover, we will carve out a bright and hopeful future for the generation alive now and the generations of tomorrow. We will spare no effort to do so.

I will conclude my address by once again offering my heartfelt prayers for the repose of the souls of the war dead and for the happiness of the members of their bereaved families.

Shinzo Abe
Prime Minister of Japan
August 15, 2017