Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi on Monday apologized for Tokyo's wartime colonization and invasions in Asia on occasion of the 60th anniversary of the country's surrender in World War II.

Koizumi also pledged Japan would never forget the "terrible lessons" of the war.

In a written statement, the Japanese prime minister said Japan had caused tremendous damage and suffering to Asian countries due to its colonial rule and military aggression.

"We humbly accept this kind of historical fact and express anew our deep remorse and sincere apology," he said.

"Japan is resolved to contribute to world peace and prosperity without starting a war again," the prime minister said in the statement, which the Cabinet approved earlier Monday.

This year's anniversary comes at a time when Japan is experiencing strained ties with its neighbors over war-related issues, with particular attention focused on whether Koizumi will visit Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine on Aug. 15, the day Japan surrendered.

Koizumi indicated last Friday he would not visit the shrine around Aug. 15. He has visited the shrine every year since taking office in April 2001, triggering strong protest from countries that suffered Japanese aggression atrocities during the war.

The shrine is symbolic of Japanese militarism as it honors 14 Class-A war criminals.

Source: Xinhua