(May 14, 1998, The Chugoku Shimbun)

In response to India's consecutive nuclear tests, Mayor of Hiroshima Takashi Hiraoka expressed his shock and anger at the press conference which was held at his residence located in the City's Nishi-Ward on 13 May 1998. He said in his speech, "Citizens of Hiroshima should collect their ideas and come up with drastic action program in order to persuade nuclear states." He demanded citizens' cooperation.

Hiraoka commented on India's two violent tests, totally ignoring protest from the A-bomb City, Hiroshima and ignored the efforts of holding the A-bomb exhibition in India. "Their act told us that they gave up the responsibility in the international society. But nuclear states must answer for driving India into a corner." He looked upset to have to face the aggravation of nuclear situation.

Hiraoka emphasized, "Our message might not reach politicians in India but they are well taken by the people of India. If we increase the number of people who understand our message, it will give us an opportunity. There is no point in being a prisoner to despair."

He commented on the future plan, "We shouldn't just depend on protesting but we should find the way to strengthen ties among NGOs and think of a realistic action program which can persuade India and nuclear states. What I expect from each citizen is to take this matter as their own problem and collect our wisdom in order to act against it." This was stated enthusiastically.