Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield recently engaged with students at the Atomic Bomb Museum in Nagasaki, Japan. The event was attended by members of Nagasaki’s delegation, coordinated by the Nagasaki University’s Research Center for Nuclear Weapons Abolition, and students from various programs at Nagasaki University and the University of Nagasaki.
During her opening remarks, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield expressed her commitment to a nuclear-free world. "I leave here committed to accomplishing a world where nuclear weapons will never, ever be used again," she stated. She emphasized the importance of preserving history to build a better future and discussed efforts towards nonproliferation at the UN Security Council.
The discussion covered various topics including cyber security and food security. On cyber security, she highlighted its significance as an international security issue: "We believe that all UN Member States must reign in, for example, ransomware and cyber attackers." She pointed out North Korea's use of cyber attacks to fund its nuclear program as a concern.
Addressing food security, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield noted the impact of conflicts like those in Ukraine and Sudan on global food supplies. "Conflict does contribute to food insecurity," she said, citing how wars disrupt access to essential resources like grain and fertilizer.
On Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), she acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic about achieving them with the help of younger generations. "I remain hopeful that we can achieve the SDGs," she said while encouraging students to continue working towards these goals.
Throughout the session, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield encouraged dialogue with students and stressed their role in addressing global issues. The event concluded with gratitude expressed by both parties for this opportunity for exchange.