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“Peace” and “nuclear non-proliferation.” If we pose a question, “Are they necessary?” we think almost everyone would reply, “Yes, they are definitely needed.” In this dangerous world in which we live, those two terms are, inextricably linked. Our homeland, Japan, has enjoyed a life of affl uence made possible by a long period of uninterrupted peace, is unprecedented in world history. As the only nation that experienced the indescribable grief of nuclear devastation, Japan has been calling for a comprehensive ban on the possession, manufacture, and illegal transport of nuclear weapons; appealing for a “nuclear ban” for the world.

When we contemplate why Japan has been blessed with peace, and look out to the world, we are directly confronted with the reality that Japan’s peace results from a delicate balance while the number of countries with nuclear arsenals continues to rise. Such reality reminds us how precious and irreplaceable peace is and how diffi cult it is to realize a nuclear ban.

Recently, I came across an interesting story about a young Japanese engineer who succeeded in introducing his kitchen disposal all over a Southeast Asian country. He faced many difficulties in designing and developing it to suit the local climate and market conditions. The biggest challenge was to change people’s attitudes. After initial difficulties, he persisted in selling the machine by explaining the machine’s simplicity and practicality and, by stressing that towns and cities would become cleaner and more livable. Once people’s attitudes began to change, towns and cities became much cleaner.

Humans often make mistakes. When their attitudes begin to shift in the right direction, however, they can produce inordinate results. That is the wisdom of which humans are capable.

Various factors keep us from realizing peace and a nuclear ban. I believe, advocating the right things continuously and patiently will move people’s hearts, as the Japanese engineer showed, leading people in the right direction.

With prayers to realize a truly peaceful world without nuclear weapons, artists from six countries with different political and cultural backgrounds are reaching to one another and together will perform on May 16th in New York City. It will be my profound pleasure as one of the advisory board members, if the “Harmony for Peace” charity concert becomes a small, but sure trigger to set humanity’s wisdom in motion.

Fumio Kishida

A Member of the House of Representatives Advisor,

Peace Concert Excective Committee