Brazilian Historian Praises CPV's Role In Vietnam’s Modern History
	Over 200 Valuable Documents Displayed at 'Mountains and Rivers Connected One Strip' Exhibition

Could you share your thoughts on the significance of the “Time for peace: Writing the next chapter” exchange program?

I believe this event is truly special, as it took place on the day marking the 50th anniversary of the end of the war in Vietnam. The end of the war gives us hope that if we truly unite and believe in justice, we will ultimately prevail.

Co-founder and Executive Director of Peace Boat Yoshioka Tatsuya. (Photo: Dinh Hoa)

Therefore, the event carries a powerful message. It is a moment for the people of Japan and Vietnam to reflect together on the 50 years that have passed since the end of the war in Vietnam.

In today’s world, where conflicts still abound, the Vietnamese people have sent a clear message: peace is more important than anything else. I believe that is why the event holds significance for all peace-loving individuals around the globe.

Why is Vietnam a regular destination for Peace Boat?

Our first visit to Vietnam was in 1985. At the time, the country was still recovering from the war. We saw the pain and the scars with our own eyes. We also learned about the Vietnamese people's remarkable efforts in their fight for independence, and the suffering they endured for years afterward.

Vietnam’s wartime history is profoundly significant. The war in Vietnam was one of the most devastating conflicts in modern history. It’s essential that we pass on the message: such horrors must never be repeated. The Vietnamese experience offers critical lessons about the importance of peace, the values of peace, peace education, and peacebuilding activities.

Japan has also suffered immense loss, most notably the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, so we feel a deep empathy with the Vietnamese people. Since that first visit, Peace Boat has returned to Vietnam almost every year. Personally, I have visited over 50 times, and Peace Boat has docked in Vietnam roughly 39 times.

What are your most unforgettable memories of Vietnam?

I have two particularly vivid memories.

The first was a deeply painful experience. I visited Tu Du Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City and saw children born with severe deformities caused by Agent Orange. Some newborns did not survive. Witnessing those scenes firsthand left me heartbroken. It was a powerful reminder of the long-lasting and devastating impact of war.

The second memory is a joyful and heartwarming one. It happened during a youth exchange program in Da Nang. The Vietnamese youth were incredibly friendly and welcoming. Every year, we organize exchange activities between Vietnamese and Japanese youth, exploring the city together, sharing meals, and having heartfelt conversations. When the ship departs, both the Vietnamese and Japanese youths often cry. Even with only a few short days together, I realized that unity holds a special power; it brings genuine happiness.

What is the potential for cooperation between Peace Boat and VUFO?

I believe there is potential to strengthen our partnership, especially in fields like peace studies, sustainable development, climate change response, and ocean-related issues.

Our cooperation should not be limited to peace alone. It can also expand to programs for young people and lifelong learning. There are many ways to bring these ideas to life.

Peace Boat and VUFO can expand their cooperation to programs for young people and lifelong learning. (Photo: Dinh Hoa)

Young people are naturally curious and eager to explore. Experiential programs like Peace Boat, which combine travel, multicultural exchange, and cross-border dialogue, provide opportunities for youth from different countries to connect, learn from each other, and grow together.

Our goal is to design engaging, inspiring activities that spark interest among young people and empower them to contribute to building a more peaceful and sustainable world.

What message would you like to share with the younger generation in Vietnam?

I truly believe that Vietnamese history is remarkable, and you possess that legacy. Your country has achieved incredible development after experiencing one of the most terrible wars in the world. Therefore, you should have confidence, and you should have strong motivation to contribute to the creation of a more peaceful world.

Your experience is not only for yourselves; it should be universal. It can support many people around the world and contribute to building a truly peaceful world. Please join in the effort and study peace and peacebuilding. We are always together. Let's work together for world peace.

Thank you very much!

[Photo] Peace Boat delegates immersed in Quang Ninh's Hues On April 30, the 120th voyage of the Peace Boat Organization, departing from Yokohama (Japan), docked at Ha Long International Cruise Port, Quang Ninh Province. ...

Global Community Join Hands to Write the Next Chapter of Peace This is the message conveyed through the exchange "Time for peace: Writing the next chapter," held by the Viet Nam Union of Friendship Organizations ...