Live Updates: G7 Hiroshima

Photos: Hiroshima after G7 summit

Atomic bomb survivors disappointed with G7's 'Hiroshima vision'

A survivor of the 1945 atomic bombing told reporters in Hiroshima Sunday that she is "disappointed" with the outcome of the G7 summit.

Setsuko Thurlow is a prominent advocate against the use of nuclear weapons. For more than half a century, the 91-year-old has been calling for abolishing nuclear weapons around the world. In 2017, she gave a speech about her experience at the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. That year, the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons was awarded the prize.

Thurlow took issue with the joint statement G7 leaders released on nuclear disarmament, noting that the statement makes no mention of the very treaty that aims to end the use of nuclear weapons, the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. She also said she wishes G7 leaders had done more to acknowledge the historic significance of the summit being held in Hiroshima.

The co-chairperson of the Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations, or Nihon Hidankyo, echoed her sentiments. Tanaka Terumi said he is disappointed that G7 nations continue to rely on nuclear deterrence rather than work towards abolishing nuclear weapons entirely.

Biden leaves Hiroshima

US President Joe Biden left Hiroshima at around 8:35 p.m.

Before his departure, he told reporters that the US will launch new efforts with partners to train Ukrainian pilots on fourth-generation fighter aircraft, including the F-16.

Special edition of Newsline is live

A special edition of Newsline is live now! We have all the latest on the final day of the G7 summit. Watch here.

Zelenskyy delivers speech

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is giving a speech in Hiroshima.

Zelenskyy to give speech in Hiroshima

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to deliver a speech in Hiroshima. Follow live with special coverage from NHK Newsline, starting at 19:00 JST. Watch here.

PM Kishida meets with Zelenskyy

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio is holding a bilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Zelenskyy takes a moment for atomic bomb victims

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has laid flowers and offered prayers at a cenotaph honoring the victims of the bombing at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Yoon's visit signals improving Japan-S. Korea ties but issues remain

Before meeting at the G7 summit on Sunday, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio visited the Hiroshima Memorial Peace Park to pay their respects to Koreans who died in the US atomic bombings of Japan in 1945.

Following is commentary from NHK World Seoul Bureau Chief Aoki Yoshiyuki on efforts by South Korea and Japan's leadership to repair historically icy relations between the two countries.

The South Korean government has called the joint visit symbolic. A senior South Korean official says Yoon and Kishida showed that they are serious about resolving historical issues. But although it appears tensions are cooling, several big issues between the two countries remain.

One of those relates to Japan's crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. Seoul has raised concerns about a plan to release treated and diluted water from the facility into the ocean. At the Kishida-Yoon summit earlier this month, both agreed on a plan to send experts to inspect the plant. A major South Korean newspaper calls the inspection "a touchstone for restoring trust between the two countries."

Yoon says his government is ready to cooperate with Japan to help South Korea become what it calls a "global pivotal state." Speaking at the G7 outreach sessions on Saturday, Yoon made it clear his government will play a bigger role in issues like climate change and global food security.

Regarding North Korea, Kishida and Yoon have held talks with US President Joe Biden, sending a clear message to Pyongyang that the three nations are united against North Korea's increasing nuclear and missile development. The trilateral cooperation is a move to build what is being called "an Asian version of NATO." Japan and South Korea remain on alert as the North says it is preparing to launch a military spy satellite. So while Kishida and Yoon still have to find solutions for issues that linger between the countries, they seem to be making progress on several fronts.

Zelenskyy tours Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, dedicated to detailing the devastation caused by the world's first atomic bombing in 1945.

NHK World's Shirakawa Marina reports.

Zelenskyy proposes summit conference in July

Ukraine's presidential office says President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed holding a summit-level international conference in July. It says Zelenskyy made the suggestion during one of Sunday's G7 sessions joined by the leaders of non-member countries, including India.

The office officials say he wants to garner support for his peace proposal, which includes the restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity.

Leaders leaving Japan

The world leaders who attended the G7 Hiroshima summit are leaving Japan. French President Emmanuel Macron departed from Hiroshima Airport at around 3:30 p.m. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz left shortly afterward. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak left at 4:40 p.m.

Zelenskyy meets with Yoon

South Korea's presidential office has announced that South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The announcement says Yoon expressed his intention to promptly provide assistance in the form of emergency vehicles and equipment for mine clearing.

After the meeting, Zelenskyy tweeted his thanks for South Korea's support.

Biden meets Zelenskyy in Hiroshima

US President Joe Biden has met with Ukrainian President Volodymir Zelenskyy in Hiroshima. During the meeting, Biden told Zelenskyy about a new package of military aid of up to 375 million dollars to Ukraine. The aid includes artillery pieces and armed vehicles.

Rishi Sunak calls G7 Hiroshima summit 'historic'

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called G7 Hiroshima summit "historic," as the G7 leaders renewed their commitment to "the path of peace, freedom and democracy."

He touched on Ukrainian President President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to Hiroshima. He said that the visit sent "a powerful message about the unity and determination of the G7 allies." He said Ukraine must not only win the war but win a just and lasting peace.

The British Prime Minister also said, "There could be no more fitting place to discuss the urgent need for peace, than Hiroshima."

Sunak touched on his experience of visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, saying he was deeply moved by his visit there. He spoke about looking at a child's tricycle twisted by the blast and school uniforms bloodied and torn. He said he and other leaders resolved never to forget what happened in Hiroshima with those images in their minds.

Ukrainians in Tokyo call for support in war effort

Evacuees from Ukraine and others gathered in Tokyo on Sunday afternoon to call on countries for more support.

A rally was held in front of the train station in Shibuya. A Ukrainian evacuee said she believes there are similarities with the situations in Ukraine with what happened in Hiroshima, a city that suffered greatly because of the atomic bombing in 1945. Another woman stressed the importance of continued supports to help Ukraine in the war.

Zelenskyy thanks G7 for supporting Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has shared a video of him sitting alongside G7 leaders, including British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and French President Emmanuel Macron. Zelensky commented, "Every decision for the defense of Ukraine brings our victory closer. I thank all our partners and allies for their support!"

PM Kishida holds news conference

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio is now speaking at a news conference in Hiroshima. G7 leaders have concluded three days of talks.

Kishida to announce G7 Hiroshima summit outcome at news conference　

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio is set to announce the outcome of this year's G7 summit. Follow live with special coverage from NHK Newsline, starting at 14:00 JST. Watch here.

G7 leaders hold closing session

The G7 leaders have held a closing session to wrap up the 3-day summit in Hiroshima.

Afterwards, Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio will hold a news conference to reflect on the outcomes of the summit.

Messages for peace displayed in Hiroshima

Plaques inscribed with messages for peace have been displayed in flower gardens in Hiroshima Prefecture. Some of the messages are calling for peace in Ukraine and Syria. About 5,500 plaques were distributed in total by the Citizens Council for the Hiroshima Summit. Some were sent to elementary schools and high schools ahead of the G7 summit.

Japan-US-S.Korea leaders meet

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has met with US President Joe Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol in Hiroshima. It was the first summit involving the three countries since their leaders met in Cambodia last November.

US officials say Biden has invited the leaders to the United States for a summit in the future.

German Chancellor says Zelenskyy's presence at G7 summit is important

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has said the fact that the G7 leaders are talking about peace and security in a concrete way at such a symbolic place as Hiroshima is "more than right."

He noted it is important that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in Hiroshima not only to talk with the G7 leaders, but also with many countries from the Global South that are attending the summit.

Macron calls G7 Hiroshima a summit of 'unity' for Ukraine

French President Emmanuel Macron has called the G7 gathering in Hiroshima a summit of "unity and support" for Ukraine.

Macron said the summit gave Ukraine a chance to directly explain the country's situation to India, Indonesia, Brazil and others with which it has had few exchanges, and remind the international community it is essential to support the UN Charter, national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Zelenskyy meets with Joko

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Indonesian President Joko Widodo in Hiroshima. Ukraine's presidential office says Zelenskyy stressed the scale of the damage to his country's infrastructure by Russia's ongoing military attacks.

Joko is said to have commended the continuation of an initiative to export Ukrainian grains via the Black Sea. A two-month extension of the Russian-Ukrainian deal was announced on Wednesday.

Ninth session begins

The G7 leaders are meeting with eight leaders from non-G7 nations as well as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the heads of seven international institutions to discuss global peace and stability. Those institutions include the IMF, UN and OECD.

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Eighth session begins

The G7 leaders are joined by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the situation in Ukraine.

They are expected to convey directly to Zelenskyy their intention to continue sanctions against Russia and support for Ukraine.

Zelenskyy meets with Trudeau

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has held a bilateral meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Zelenskyy thanked him for Canada's support of Ukraine.

Non-member leaders take a moment for atomic bomb victims

The heads of invited countries, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian Prime Minister Joko Widodo, have laid flowers and offered prayers at a cenotaph to victims of the 1945 atomic bombing.

Non-G7 leaders tour Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

The heads of invited countries and representatives from international organizations have visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, dedicated to detailing the devastation caused by the world's first atomic bombing in 1945.

G7 leaders also visited the museum on Friday, and met an atomic bomb survivor there.

Security tightens in Hiroshima for Zelenskyy visit

Police have deployed more officers to Hiroshima amid Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to the G7 summit. They are adding to the up to 24,000 personnel already on duty in the city.

Japan-South Korea summit talks

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio is meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol. Their talks come just 12 days after their last summit in Seoul.

S. Korean president prays for Korean A-bomb victims

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol laid flowers at a monument dedicated to the Korean victims of the 1945 atomic bombing of Hiroshima. He was accompanied by Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio. It was the first visit by a South Korean President to the site.

China reacts sharply to G7 communique

The spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry has responded to a joint communique issued by G7 leaders at the Hiroshima summit.

"Despite China's serious concerns, the G7 used issues concerning China to smear and attack China and brazenly interfere in China's internal affairs. China strongly deplores and firmly opposes this," the statement read.

The G7 communique released on Saturday included concerns over China's recent growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

Meloni to leave G7 early to tackle flood crisis

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni says she is leaving the G7 summit in Japan a day earlier than scheduled to tackle the flood crisis in Italy. Torrential rains and deadly floods hit parts of the country this week.

Italy is set to host the G7 summit next year. Meloni says it will take place in the country's southern region of Apulia.

Biden to meet Zelenskyy in Hiroshima

The White House has announced that US President Joe Biden will have a bilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Hiroshima on Sunday afternoon. President Biden will likely stress his government's support for Ukraine.

Quad leaders agree to oppose any change in status quo by force

The leaders of Japan, the United States, Australia and India, have agreed to strongly oppose unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion. The four countries comprise the strategic Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad).

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met at a hotel in Hiroshima.

Kishida pointed out that the global security situation has become increasingly tense due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He said under these circumstances it is vital that the leaders of the four nations get together and show the rest of the international community that they are committed to their shared goal — the creation of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Regarding the situation in Ukraine, the leaders agreed to support a fair and permanent peace in accordance with the UN Charter.

They did not mention Russia by name, out of consideration for India, which has amicable relations with Moscow. However, the four leaders agreed to denounce Russia's use, or threats to use, nuclear weapons.

Photos: G7 summit meals made with local ingredients

Zelenskyy meets with four G7 leaders, EU and India counterparts

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Italy, the UK, France and Germany on Saturday. He also had talks with European Council President Charles Michel and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Zelenskyy shared on Twitter that the meetings focused on support for his country in its ongoing war with Russia.

Thousands of paper cranes sent to Hiroshima from across Japan

People across Japan have sent around 57,000 paper cranes to Hiroshima City, a gesture that symbolizes peace.

Some of them are made with wrapping paper or pamphlets, and all of them will be recycled after the summit.

Watch: Hiroshima Castle covered with colorful lights

Seventh session ends

The G7 leaders, along with the heads of eight invited countries and representatives of seven international organizations, have wrapped up their last session of day two. They are believed to have exchanged views on climate, energy, and environmental issues.

Ukraine evacuee welcomes Zelenskyy's visit to Hiroshima

This is part of what Zoriana Khivrich, a Ukrainian evacuee living in Hiroshima, shared on NHK World’s Newsline about President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Japan.

I think it's dangerous to leave Ukraine, but he is so brave. He made this important step to talk to G7 leaders. I think that if he talks face to face [with G7 leaders], we can get more results and more support for Ukraine.

I lost two of my friends on the battlefield, fighting against Russia. They were just 20 and 21 years old. My heart aches when I think of my home. We left our city hearing the sounds of bombs going off, and couldn't sleep for days because of the sirens. I never thought I would leave Kyiv and come live in Japan.

I want Zelenskyy to remind people about the war. Ukraine is not a very rich country. They need donations and medicine. Ukraine by itself cannot win this war.

Zelenskyy meets Modi

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Hiroshima.

India's foreign ministry says it was their first in-person meeting since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The ministry did not provide details of the meeting.

G7 spouses visit Itsukushima Shrine

The spouses of G7 leaders visited the Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage site.

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio's wife Yuko, US First Lady Jill Biden, and British Prime Minister's wife Akshata Murthy were among the members of the group. They were welcomed by a traditional Japanese dance performance at the shrine.

They later watched chefs make Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at a nearby restaurant.

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Seventh session begins

The G7 leaders, along with the heads of eight invited countries and representatives of seven international organizations, have started their last session of day two, exchanging views on climate, energy, and environmental issues.

Demonstrators in Hiroshima demand denuclearization

About 150 people took to the streets of downtown Hiroshima carrying banners reading, "no nuclear war" as the G7 leaders gathered in the Japanese city for a three-day summit. NHK World's Yamaguchi Hiroaki reports.

G7 leaders issue communique

Leaders of the Group of Seven nations have issued a communique stressing their commitment to uphold a free and open international order based on the rule of law, and continuing support for Ukraine. The document also emphasizes that G7 partners will work toward a world free of nuclear weapons.

Sixth session ends

The G7 leaders, along with the heads of eight invited countries and representatives of seven international organizations, have wrapped up their discussions on global food problems, international policies, and gender issues.

Photos: PM Kishida greets non-G7 leaders in Hiroshima

Zelenskyy sends tweet upon touching down in Japan

"Japan. G7. Important meetings with partners and friends of Ukraine. Security and enhanced cooperation for our victory. Peace will become closer today," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy tweeted this in English after arriving at Hiroshima Airport at around 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Zelenskyy arrives in Hiroshima for G7

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Japan to attend the G7 summit in Hiroshima.

Sixth session begins

The G7 leaders are discussing global food problems, international policies and gender issues at a session called "Outreach Meeting." They are being joined by the leaders of eight invited countries and representatives of seven international organizations.

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PM Kishida welcomes non-member leaders

The summit chair, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and his wife Yuko are greeting the leaders of non-member countries and international organizations at a hotel in Hiroshima City.

Fifth session ends

The G7 leaders wrapped up their discussion on "economic resilience and economic security" over lunch.

They are believed to have spoken about the establishment of a framework that will enable the G7 members to work together to counter "economic coercion."

Biden writes his hope for nuke-free world

US President Joe Biden wrote, "May the stories of this Museum remind us all of our obligations to build a future of peace." He added, "Together let us continue to make progress toward the day when we can finally and forever rid the world of nuclear weapons."

The G7 leaders on Friday wrote their messages in the guest book when they visited the Peace Memorial Museum, which houses relics of the devastation caused by the world's first atomic bombing of a city, in 1945.

Sunak causes red baseball socks to sell out

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak wore a pair of the bright red Hiroshima Toyo Carp baseball team socks when he met with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio on Thursday.

After a clip of their meeting went viral on social media, the footwear sold out at a store in Hiroshima City. Sales of the official socks are limited to within the prefecture.

Fifth session begins

The G7 leaders are discussing "economic resilience and economic security." They are likely focusing on export restrictions and other measures to use as economic levers. They're also expected to examine cooperative measures to strengthen supply chains for semiconductors, critical minerals, and other products.

US to train Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 fighter jets

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan says President Joe Biden on Friday told the G7 leaders that he approves the training of Ukrainian pilots on US-made F-16 fighter jets.

Fourth session ends

The G7 leaders have wrapped up their discussion on relations with emerging and developing countries.

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Fourth session starts

The G7 leaders are discussing relations with emerging and developing countries.

PM Kishida meeting with non-member leaders

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio met with the leaders of India, Indonesia, and Brazil on Saturday morning in Hiroshima before the start of the second day of the G7 summit.

Hiroshima security tight as leaders arrive at venue

Police officers near the summit venue are conducting strict baggage inspections. Many people gathered alongside the road to see world leaders as they head to the meetings.

Zelenskyy on his way to Hiroshima

Diplomatic sources say Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is now on his way to Japan after his visit to Saudi Arabia.

Zelenskyy is scheduled to arrive at the Hiroshima airport Saturday afternoon. It will be his first trip to Asia since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

He is expected to attend the G7 summit on Sunday.

Traffic restrictions continue in central Hiroshima

Authorities in Hiroshima are restricting traffic on city center roads and expressways for the duration of the three-day G7 summit that started on Friday.

Police on high alert in Tokyo as summit proceeds

Police have tightened security in the capital as the G7 summit proceeds further south.

At some railway stations and other transportation hubs, rubbish bins have been sealed and coin lockers are unavailable for use.

Officers have been deployed to stations, airports and other possible terrorist targets such as embassies.

Photos: G7 leaders tour Itsukushima Shrine, Hiroshima Prefecture

Leaders leave messages at Peace Museum

G7 leaders in Hiroshima on Friday morning visited the Peace Memorial Museum, which houses relics of the devastation caused by the world's first atomic bombing of a population center, in 1945.

The French presidential office says President Emmanuel Macron wrote in the visitor's book that it's up to present leaders to remember the victims of Hiroshima and take action for peace.

The Italian government says Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wrote that today the leaders bowed their heads and stopped in prayer. She wished for a future of hope, while remembering the past.

Atomic-bomb survivor says leaders needed to spend more time at museum

Tanaka Terumi of the Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations says he wanted world leaders to spend more time at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.

G7 leaders on Friday morning visited the institution, which is dedicated to detailing the devastation caused by the world's first atomic bombing of a population center, which took place in 1945.

"I think one has to take time to absorb the exhibitions in order to gain a new perspective on nuclear weapons, and I cannot say the leaders had enough time, which is a shame," Tanaka said.

Third session ends

G7 leaders have wrapped up their talks on the theme of "diplomacy and security" over dinner. They likely discussed the situation in the Indo-Pacific region encompassing China, as well as the challenges of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida, as the G7 Chair, is believed to have stressed Japan's stance never to accept unilateral changes to the status quo by force, and expressed hope to work with other G7 nations to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific.

G7 tea ceremony

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida's wife Yuko held a traditional tea ceremony on Friday, providing partners of the G7 leaders a taste of the country's culture.

G7 leaders meet A-bomb survivor

G7 leaders met with 85-year-old A-bomb survivor Ogura Keiko on Friday at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Ogura told reporters, "I described what I saw in Hiroshima at the age of 8. I asked the leaders to relive it through my eyes and heart. I told my story as it happened, hoping they would feel the pain and frustration."

Ogura was exposed to the atomic blast near her home, 2.4 kilometers from the hypocenter. She later set up a group of interpreters, to help survivors get their messages across. Her project carries on the work of her late husband, Kaoru, who served as director of the Peace Memorial Museum.

Third session starts

G7 leaders are now having a working dinner that involves discussion of "diplomacy and security." The participants are set to focus on the situation in the Indo-Pacific region encompassing China, as well as nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.

Leaders visiting Miyajima World Heritage site

G7 leaders are visiting the island of Miyajima, home to Itsukushima Shinto Shrine and its famous seagirt torii gate and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Government prepared exhibits at museum

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno Hirokazu says the government had prepared exhibits at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum so that the leaders could effectively touch on the reality of the 1945 atomic bombing.

Matsuno said at a news conference on Friday afternoon that Prime Minister Kishida explained some of the exhibits to the leaders.

British PM's emotional response to Peace Memorial Park

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said in a Twitter post, "It was deeply moving to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which holds such significance."

Sunak also said, "This summit carries the weight of history and it's important that we learn from the past, including from its darkest moments."

Second session ends

G7 leaders have wrapped up the second session of their summit. They discussed Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

They are believed to have strongly condemned Russia's aggression and reaffirmed their determination to counter Moscow's evasion of sanctions.

Ukraine's national security and defense council secretary, Oleksiy Danilov, said in an interview that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will visit Japan for the G7 summit. It will be his first trip to Asia since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

Protesters sound off for democracy in Myanmar

Dozens of pro-democracy activists from Myanmar staged a rally in Hiroshima on Friday as the G7 summit got underway.

Many traveled from distant parts of Japan to call on G7 leaders to take action against Myanmar's military junta. Rally organizers say they want to remind world leaders of the millions in Myanmar displaced by violence.

Human rights workers say more than 3,500 people have been killed by the military since it seized power in 2021.

More leaders arriving in Japan

Leaders of non-member countries and representatives of international organizations have been arriving in Japan.

The prime minister has invited them for discussions in what is being called an outreach meeting. The leaders of eight countries, including India, Australia and South Korea, as well as officials from the United Nations, the International Atomic Energy Agency and other organizations are expected to attend the meeting.

Second session begins

The second session of the G7 summit has started. The leaders are discussing Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Multiple media report that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to visit Japan for the summit. It will be his first trip to Asia since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

Atomic bomb survivor urges abolition of nuclear arms

Tanaka Toshiko, an atomic bomb survivor, watched on TV as G7 leaders visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

"I used to play around the fountain there, and all the kids I played with were killed by the bomb," says Tanaka.

As the leaders visited the park's museum and reportedly listened to a bombing survivor's story, Tanaka said she wants them to conduct politics while keeping in mind what they heard today. She called for a stronger global push toward abolishing nuclear weapons.

Leaders wrap up first session

The first session of the G7 summit has finished. The leaders discussed "a cooperative international society" over lunch.

Participants reportedly exchanged opinions on how to use and regulate artificial intelligence, including chatbots, amid the rapid spread of the technology.

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Tourists stranded amid G7 traffic restrictions

Traffic security measures for the G7 summit are proving a headache for some foreign visitors.

Several Spanish tourists planning to visit the Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage Site, said they only recently learned access to the island is restricted. A volunteer interpreter explained the traffic measures and suggested alternative destinations.

First session begins

The first session of the G7 summit has started. The leaders are discussing "a cooperative international society" over lunch. They are expected to exchange views on the global economy and the use of AI, among other topics.

Ukraine president to join G7 summit in person

Multiple media report that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to visit Japan for the G7. It will be his first trip to Asia since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

G7 leaders heading to summit venue

G7 leaders are now on their way to the Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima, the summit venue.

G7 leaders plant tree in Peace Park

G7 leaders have planted a tree in Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park as a mark of respect for those who perished in the atomic bombing of the city.

Hiroshima Mayor Matsui Kazumi pointed out the Atomic Bomb Dome, located near the hypocenter of the 1945 blast.

Leaders take a moment for atomic bomb victims

The G7 leaders have laid wreaths and offered prayers at a cenotaph to victims of the 1945 atomic bombing.

Local high school students report on G7 summit

Hoping to share details of the G7 summit with people of their own generation, local high school students are reporting on the gathering.

Forty students from the newspaper club of Sotoku High School in Hiroshima fanned out around the city's Peace Memorial Park to speak to journalists from around the world. The students also tried to capture photos of the leaders arriving to be welcomed by Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio.

Hiroshima residents glimpse G7 leaders

Residents of Hiroshima and visitors from farther afield lined the city's Peace Boulevard to catch a glimpse of G7 leaders, some of them having waited for hours.

Among those hoping to see the leaders on their way to Peace Memorial Park was Nitta Takeo, 82, who walked from his home about three kilometers away.

Nitta watched from the roadside as cars carrying the leaders passed by, saying, "As a Hiroshima resident, I hope that this summit will help to turn the tide in the direction of peace."

G7 leaders touring Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

The G7 leaders are now visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which is dedicated to detailing the devastation caused by the world's first atomic bombing in 1945. It's the first time for all G7 leaders to visit the museum together. They are also expected to meet atomic bomb survivors there.

Tight security in place as summit opens

The summit opens with Prime Minister Kishida welcoming leaders of the G7 member nations to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park.

Strict security measures are in place. Entry to the park, including the area around the Atomic Bomb Dome, has been restricted since midday Thursday, while access to roads in the area has been limited since Friday morning.

Images captured at approximately 5:00 a.m. May 19 (Top: Atomic Bomb Dome/Bottom: Peace Memorial Park entry point)

PM Kishida welcoming G7 leaders at peace park

The summit chair, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and his wife Yuko are greeting the leaders of the G7 nations and their partners at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

PM Kishida meeting with leaders

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio met with the leaders of Canada, Germany, and France on Friday morning in Hiroshima ahead of the G7 summit.

G7 summit to start in Hiroshima

G7 leaders gather on Friday for a summit in Hiroshima City, site of the world's first atomic bombing. Prime Minister Kishida Fumio will guide the visitors around the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Follow live with special coverage from NHK Newsline, starting at 10:00 JST. Watch here.

South Korean atomic bomb survivors welcome cenotaph visit

A group of South Koreans who were exposed to radiation in Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 and now live in South Korea has welcomed the announcement that the leaders of South Korea and Japan will visit the cenotaph for South Korean atomic bomb victims in Hiroshima.

Some participants said that the South Korean government's support for the atomic bomb survivors has not been sufficient and called for the construction of a memorial in the country.

Photo: Glimpse of the International Media Center

G7 guests to receive traditional souvenirs

G7 leaders and delegations will be gifted local specialties and traditional crafts as souvenirs.

The parting gift comprises a set of fountain pens made by a world-famous manufacturer in the area and glasses made by a local artist, using traditional lacquer techniques. Sources say the souvenirs were chosen to reflect the traditional culture of Japan and Hiroshima.

British PM stresses significance of holding G7 summit in Hiroshima

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak says he will be assuring other G7 countries of his continued support for nuclear nonproliferation.

In an interview with NHK in Tokyo on Thursday, the prime minister said he feels it is important to learn lessons from history by visiting Hiroshima and the Peace Memorial Park. He said the summit will remind people of the horrors of nuclear war and serve as a guide for the future of nuclear nonproliferation.

Atomic bomb survivor wants US President to 'feel with his heart' on museum visit

Survivor of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima Yawata Teruko has welcomed the announcement that Joe Biden is to visit the city's Peace Memorial Museum, saying she wants the US leader to take a close look at the exhibits and "feel with his heart, not think with his head" about the tragic consequences of the use of nuclear weapons.

South Korea announces talks between President Yoon, Japan's Kishida

South Korea's presidential office has announced that President Yoon Suk-yeol is to meet Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio on Sunday on the sidelines of the G7 summit. The two leaders last met when Kishida visited Seoul on May 7.

The two will also visit the cenotaph for South Korean atomic bomb victims in Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park.

Watch: People excited to see Air Force One

Japan-UK talks begin

Discussions between Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak have started at a Japanese restaurant in Hiroshima City.

Leaders wrap up Japan-US talks, pledge to work together

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and US President Joe Biden have wrapped up their talks at a hotel in Hiroshima City.

The two are believed to have discussed the further strengthening of the alliance between their countries and agreed to work together to make the G7 summit a success.

Biden: US, Japan stand up for shared values

US President Joe Biden started talks with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio by underscoring their commitment to nuclear nonproliferation and ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.

He also referenced their countries' position on the invasion of Ukraine.

Kishida: G7 determined to protect international order

At the beginning of a meeting with the US president, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio said the alliance between the two countries is the cornerstone of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. He also expressed great satisfaction with the ever-growing cooperation between the two partners.

Kishida said he wants the G7 to demonstrate its unwavering determination to protect the international order based on the rule of law.

Japan-US talks begin

Discussions between Japanese Prime Minister Kishida and US President Joe Biden have started at a hotel in Hiroshima City.

The two leaders are expected to reaffirm the need to bolster deterrence and response capabilities of their countries' alliance in light of China's growing assertiveness and North Korea's repeated ballistic missile launches. They will also likely discuss ways to strengthen supply chains for important minerals and to advance negotiations on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework.

Leaders arriving ahead of summit

G7 leaders have been arriving in Japan for the G7 summit that begins Friday. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz are among those who flew into Hiroshima airport on Thursday.

US ambassador commends Western leadership

Rahm Emanuel, US ambassador to Japan, has tweeted, "The world is safer because of American leadership & allies working in unison."

Biden leaves for Hiroshima

US President Joe Biden, accompanied by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, has left a US military base for the G7 summit in Hiroshima. At the Marine Corps facility, the American leader spent 20 minutes greeting US troops and personnel from Japan's Self-Defense Forces.

Ukraine ambassador expects strong G7 message

Ukraine's ambassador to Japan says he expects a strong message from the G7 leaders in support of his country.

Sergiy Korsunsky spoke with NHK in Tokyo on Thursday ahead of the summit. The Ukraine situation is expected to be a key topic of discussion on the first day of the summit and Korsunsky expressed confidence in Japan's role as the chair, saying Prime Minister Kishida has a "very clear and strong vision of international order based on law and rules."

He called for further assistance from Japan, which is a leader in disaster recovery. He said he also expects Japan's business community to be encouraged to invest in Ukraine and to take part in efforts to rebuild the country's damaged infrastructure.

Atomic bomb survivors hope summit venue will prompt reflection

Following is commentary from NHK World's Morota Ayaka, who has much experience of reporting on matters connected to nuclear weapons and atomic bomb survivors, or hibakusha. She is covering on the G7 summit.

Hibakusha have high hopes for this summit. They've spent decades trying to get the world to understand what they experienced in 1945. We expect the G7 leaders to spend some time inside the Peace Memorial Museum, which details the horrific aftermath of the bombing of the city. But we still don't know how much of the facility they will see, and hibakusha say just visiting is not enough.

They want leaders, especially those from countries with a nuclear arsenal, to reflect deeply on the terrifying nature of what happened here almost 78 years ago. They hope that will lead to action that will, in turn, bring us closer to a world with no nuclear weapons. Last year, the average age of hibakusha was just over 84. Many of them feel like time is running out, so hopes are pinned on seeing progress in this area in the coming months.

Japan-Italy talks begin

Discussions between Japanese Prime Minister Kishida and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni have begun at a hotel in Hiroshima City.

Biden arrives in Hiroshima

US President Joe Biden has arrived at a US Marine Corps base near the G7 venue, from where he will travel to Hiroshima by helicopter to meet Japanese Prime Minister Kishida ahead of the summit gathering.

LIVE Special G7 coverage on NHK World-Japan

Tune into NHK World-Japan now for a special edition of Newsline Asia 24. We have all the latest on the upcoming G7 summit, with live reports from Hiroshima. Watch now.

People wait for a chance to see Biden

People hoping to catch a glimpse of the US president are gathered near a US Marine Corps base where Joe Biden is to touch down before making his way to Hiroshima for the G7 summit. Some have been waiting nearly 10 hours.

NHK World-Japan in Hiroshima as the city prepares to welcome the G7

NHK World's Yamaguchi Hiroaki and NHK Hiroshima's Morota Ayaka are preparing to take us live to the G7 host city, as it gets ready to welcome the leaders of the world's wealthiest nations. They are just a short distance from Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park, which was closed to the public ahead of the visit.

Access to Miyajima Island restricted

Miyajima Island, a popular tourist destination for visitors to Hiroshima, is now quiet with access having been closed to the general public from noon on Thursday through Saturday at 2 p.m.

G7 leaders are scheduled to visit the island on Friday for a group photo.

Watch: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in advance of the G7 summit

Tightened security

Access to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park has been restricted for the summit. Police at midday on Thursday turned away tourists hoping to visit the space, which commemorates the atomic bombing of the city.

PM Kishida arrives in Hiroshima

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has arrived in Hiroshima. He plans to meet with US President Joe Biden later in the day.

Japan: G7 to build momentum for a world without nuclear weapons

Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno Hirokazu hopes the G7 summit will facilitate progress toward achieving the Japanese government's goal of realizing a world without nuclear weapons.

He also says arrangements are underway for the leaders of Japan, the US, Australia and India to hold a Quad summit in Hiroshima.

Central Hiroshima deserted

Downtown Hiroshima City, usually bustling with office workers, is quiet on Thursday with many companies having closed or asked their employees to work from home for the duration of the G7 summit.

International Media Center welcomes journalists

The International Media Center for the G7 summit opened in Hiroshima on Thursday to provide a base of operations for thousands of journalists from around the world.

NHK World-Japan will deliver live coverage from the Center.

People pray at peace memorial

Local residents pray at the city's Peace Memorial Park early Thursday morning. Security staff deployed for the summit can also be seen taking a moment to offer prayers.

PM Kishida leaves for Hiroshima

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has departed Tokyo for the G7 summit in Hiroshima. Kishida plans to meet US President Joe Biden there before the summit starts on Friday.

Up to 24,000 police officers to be deployed

Police and the Japan Coast Guard are on the highest level of alert for the G7 summit.

The National Police Agency said it will deploy up to 24,000 personnel, the highest number for any summit in Japan since 2000.

The top policing body committed 21,000 personnel to the 2008 Hokkaido Toyako summit, and 23,000 to the 2016 Ise-Shima summit.

Meanwhile, the coast guard says nearly 100 patrol boats from across the country will be sent to guard the summit venue, which is located on Ujinajima, a small island in Hiroshima.

The SeaGuardian ー a US-made surveillance drone that Japan started using last year ー is also being deployed around the clock above the hotel where the leaders will meet.

Stores and hotels close on Miyajima Island

Access to Miyajima Island, which G7 leaders will visit on Friday, is restricted this week. It is home to one of the country's most famous Shinto shrines, Itsukushima Shrine, which is a designated national treasure and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Starting at noon on Thursday, only those with proper accreditation will be allowed on the island until Saturday afternoon. This is forcing some businesses to close during the period.

All 24 rooms at Hotel Kikunoya were booked when the restriction was announced. It took the staff over a month to inform the guests about the closure and cancel their bookings.

Senior manager Matsumoto Hiroshi says while it hurts to close in the middle of the busy season, he believes the summit will end up being beneficial to the hotel in the long-run by attracting many visitors to Hiroshima.

Masaki Fumio decided to close his souvenir ship for the duration of the restriction. He says closing for three days is nothing compared to the difficulties he endured for the past three years because of the pandemic. He says he hopes the summit will deliver a message of peace from Hiroshima to the world.

Hiroshima residents prepare for summit

The summit is affecting the daily lives of Hiroshima residents. Traffic controls are being put in place in the city center and many people who live near the venue are stockpiling food and other necessities.

One resident says he bought more food than usual on a recent trip to the supermarket. He says he is worried stores will be cleaned out during the summit. Another resident says she bought lots of bread because she thinks it will be difficult to drive and go shopping for the next few days.

The Fresta supermarket on Ujinajima Island, where the venue is located, will have normal operating hours during the summit. Manager Matsumoto Shigeki says the store will ensure that residents are able to buy everything they need this week.

Watch: Floral 'G7' arrangement welcomes visiting officials

Volunteers in Hiroshima planted over 10,000 marigolds in the shape of "G7" to welcome visiting leaders and delegates. Each flower represents someone killed by the atomic bomb dropped on the city.