A-bomb survivors' groups in Japan's Hiroshima criticize DM's nuclear-related remarks

TOKYO, July 23 (Xinhua) -- A representative of atomic bomb survivors' groups in Japan's Hiroshima on Wednesday criticized recent remarks by Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi on nuclear-related policies as "utterly unforgivable."

According to local media, Satoshi Tanaka, secretary general of Liaison Conference of Hiroshima Hibakusha (A- and H-bomb sufferers) Organizations, said Koizumi, as a member of the cabinet, had made remarks that appeared to call for a reassessment of Japan's Three Non-Nuclear Principles.

"The Three Non-Nuclear Principles are a national policy of Japan," Tanaka said. "Never before has there been such a wide divide between us and the government."

He added that he would continue to press the issue and strive to steer the Japanese government toward the path of a peace-loving nation.

During an online program on July 17, Koizumi said Japan should "discuss nuclear-related policies without taboo," triggering concern both at home and abroad.