“It is necessary for Japan to maintain continuously a spirit of deep remorse as well as thoughtfulness. [The Japanese] must continue to reflect deeply and with a spirit of humility…[the Japanese have] brought great suffering to innocent people in the countries of Asia, notably the Republic of Korea and China.”
Japanese foreign minister Taro Aso, December 7, 2005.
“[The shrine is a] symbol of unresolved disputes over the war atrocities during World War II and militarism demonstrated in the Pacific War. Yasukuni Shrine is also dedicated to war criminals in World War II. I feel uncomfortable with Japanese government officials paying repeated visits to the shrine.”
Rep. Henry J. Hyde, chrmn., House International Relations Committee, letter.
Many American officials and analysts worry that Japan’s growing penchant to whitewash its past record of atrocities is leading to its isolation in the region, accelerating China's rise as dominant power in Asia and helping displace the United States.
“The failure of the U.S. to speak out on this issue...translated into increased ill will against Washington, especially from its other key East Asia ally, South Korea.”
Ralph A. Cossa, president, Pacific Forum Center for Strategic and International Studies, Hawaii, Internet essay.
James Brooke, “Japan Must Show ‘Deep Remorse’ for Wartime Actions, Official Says,” NYTs, 12/08/05.
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