The world is remembering today victims of atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, which instantly killed thousands and resulted in 140,000 deaths by the end of 1945.

A ceremony at the Peace Memorial Park commemorated the tragedy, with a moment of silence held this morning. A registry containing 353,639 victims’ names was also placed at the memorial. Leaders at the event urged for the elimination of nuclear weapons, a cause heavily advocated by the ageing survivors, or Hibakusha.

This solemn anniversary follows the bombing of Nagasaki three days later, which ultimately led to the end of World War II.