Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko attended on July 24 the opening ceremony of high school sports event in Hiroshima.

The crown prince spoke at the ceremony after student athletes and participants from each of Japan’s 47 prefectures entered the venue.

S/ Crown Prince Fumihito/ This year marks 80 years since the end of war, and with Hiroshima–one of the atomic-bombed cities–serving as the host prefecture, I believe it is deeply meaningful that this gathering is being held, and that those who have come together here have the opportunity to reflect on the past and renew their commitment to peace for the future.

Afterwards, the Akishino couple watched dance and taiko drum performances of the high schoolers.

They told the performers that it was a wonderful performance and that it surely struck a chord with the audience.