Japanese major newspapers challenged Monday Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi for his contentious visits to the war criminal-related Yasukuni Shrine, warning his practice is distaining Japan's image and undermining the relations with its neighbors.

The prime minister insisted on visiting the shrine under the stern watch of the international society, centered on criticisms from China and South Korea, and in the wake of a newly high court's ruling of this unconstitutional action, the Asahi Shimbun daily said in the editorial.

"The prime minister failed to be opposed to the shrine which holds such a historic opinion and enshrines Class-A war criminals, rather, he publicly made the visits," it said, adding that the image of visit seen around the world has once again produced the impression that Japan is a country refusing to reflect on the history.

"The prime minister represents the country. When such an act bears political meaning, it doesn't work no matter how many times it is described as private," the newspaper said.

The Mainichi Shimbun daily said in its editorial that this year marks the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II and should have served as an opportunity for Japan to enhance friendly relationship with neighbors. However, undoubtedly, Prime Minister Koizumi's obsession on visiting the shrine had fueled the resentful feeling toward Japan in the neighboring countries.

The premier vowed to join Japan's neighbors in maintaining and developing regional peace in his speech on Aug. 15. His latest visit to the shrine, however, had pictured himself as a flipper- flopper in the eyes of China and South Korea, the daily said.

Source: Xinhua