Koizumi Renews Remorse for WWII Aggression on War Anniversary

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Thursday, August 15, 2002

Koizumi Renews Remorse for WWII Aggression on War Anniversary

Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi marked the 57th anniversary Thursday of the end of World War II, renewing Japan's expression of remorse for its wartime aggression and an antiwar pledge.

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Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi marked the 57th anniversary Thursday of the end of World War II, renewing Japan's expression of remorse for its wartime aggression and an antiwar pledge.

"Representing the people of Japan, I once again express deep remorse and offer sincere condolences to the victims (of the war)," Koizumi said in a speech at the annual government-sponsored ceremony at Tokyo's Nippon Budokan hall.

The premier said Japan caused great damage and pain to people in many countries, especially Asian nations. He said he believes "passing on a peaceful Japan to the next generation is a way to repay the war dead."

"(Japan) will exert utmost efforts to realize a society where the people enjoy living, by further developing goodwill relations with neighboring countries and establishing a lasting peace as a member of the international community," he said.

Citing that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the San Francisco Peace Treaty between Japan and 48 other nations taking effect in 1952, Koizumi stressed Japan renounces war and will work towards creating peace around the world.

Koizumi's stress on renouncing war follows controversy over remarks in May by Chief Cabinet Secretary Yasuo Fukuda, who caused an uproar by seeming to suggest Japan's ban on nuclear weapons could be reviewed.

Japan maintains the "'three principles" of not possessing, manufacturing or bringing nuclear arms on to its soil.

Attending Thursday's ceremony were Emperor Akihito, Empress Michiko, senior government officials, parliamentary chiefs, leaders of political parties and about 5,000 family members of those who died in the war.

The emperor delivered a speech in which he offered his condolences to the war dead as well as his prayers for world peace and Japan's continued development.

Source: Agencies

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