Japan’s Emperor Naruhito, marking his 65th birthday on Sunday, stressed the importance of telling the tragedy of World War II to younger generations, pledging to contribute to promote the understanding of history and the determination for peace as the world this year observes the 80th anniversary of the war’s end.

“As the memory of the war fades today, it is important that the tragic experiences and history are passed on to future generations,” Naruhito said.