Full Text of HM the Emperor's Words at the 50th Anniversary of the Reversion of Okinawa to Japan:
On May 15, His Majesty the Emperor and
Empress attended the 50th anniversary of the reversion of Okinawa to Japan,
held simultaneously in Okinawa and Tokyo, from his palace online. The full text
follows.
(The mother article is here.)
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of
the reversion of Okinawa to Japan, I am very pleased that the commemorative
ceremony is being held today, connecting Okinawa and Tokyo online.
Okinawa, which was the scene of tragic
ground fighting in World War II and remained out of Japanese control for 27
years after the war, was returned to the mainland 50 years ago today, based on
the friendship and trust between the United States and Japan. In Okinawa, where
many precious lives were lost in the World War, I have heard that the people of
Okinawa have deepened their belief in "Nuchidotakara" (Life is
Treasure), and I am deeply moved to attend this ceremony while thinking about
the history of the Okinawan people who have continued to suffer.
As a first-year junior high school student,
I remember watching the news with my parents on the day of the reversion of
Okinawa to mainland Japan. In 1987, 15 years after the reversion, I visited
Okinawa for the first time during the Summer National Athletic Meet. Compared
to that time, Okinawa has developed and the lives of its citizens have
improved. I would like to express my deep respect for the tireless efforts of
the people of Okinawa and many others over the years.
On the other hand, there are still many challenges
that remain to be solved in Okinawa. I hope that the nationwide people,
including the younger generation, will deepen their understanding of Okinawa,
and I sincerely hope that the thoughts and efforts of the people of Okinawa
will be passed on to the next generation, so that a prosperous future can be
built for Okinawa.
Blessed with beautiful seas and other natural features, Okinawa has nurtured a rich history, traditions, and culture, and possesses many attractions. I wish for the further development of Okinawa and the happiness of its people.
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