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Japanese PM Repeats Remorse for Asian Victims on Anniversary
Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi on Wednesday reiterated "deep remorse" for Japan's wartime aggression in Asia and extended condolences to the war victims in neighboring countries.
"In the war, Japan caused tremendous damage and pain to people in many countries, particularly those in Asian nations," Koizumi said in a speech at a ceremony marking the 56th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II.
"Representing the people of Japan, I once again express deep remorse and offer sincere condolences to the victims," said Koizumi, who sparked criticism from Japan's neighboring countries by visiting the controversial Yasukuni Shrine on Monday.
Koizumi was the first serving Japanese prime minister in five years to make a visit to Yasukuni, which honors 14 Class A war criminals along with 2.47 million people who have died in wars since the mid-19th century.
Koizumi had initially pledged to visit Yasukuni on the August 15 anniversary, but moved up the date of the visit after coming under heavy pressure at home and abroad.
Wednesday's memorial ceremony was also attended by Japanese Emperor Akihito, Empress Michiko, government officials, politicians and families of the war dead.
Participants at the ceremony offered a minute of silent prayer at noon for souls of the 3.1 million Japanese who perished in the war.
In a brief memorial address delivered after the prayer, Emperor Akihito offered condolences to the war victims and voiced hope for world peace.
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