BEIJING - China has urged Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi not to visit a war shrine that honors World War II criminals, saying he should be "responsible" towards history and make a "right decision".

"We have been historically opposed to Japan's leader worshipping at the Yasukuni Shrine, which enshrines Class A war criminals from World War II. This position is clear and consistent," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

China has urged Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi (L) not to visit a war shrine that honors World War II criminals, saying he should be "responsible" towards history and make a "right decision" [AFP]

"We hope Japan's leader will adopt a highly responsible attitude towards history, people and the future, correct wrong actions and make a right decision."

The faxed statement came after a request by AFP for the Chinese government's response to Koizumi's recent comments indicating he may visit the Tokyo shrine on August 15, the anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II.

Koizumi, who has visited the shrine every year since he assumed office, suggested Thursday he would do the same this year although he did not give a definitive statement.

"Even if I were to avoid August 15, I am criticized whenever I visit," Koizumi told reporters before leaving on a trip to Mongolia.

"If the prime minister of Japan visits a facility, there is no reason to be criticized."

"I visit the shrine to console the souls of the war dead. This is a natural thing."

Asked if he would visit on August 15, Koizumi said: "I'll judge appropriately."

China and South Korea, which remain bitter over Japan's invasion and occupation of the countries during the war, consider the shrine a symbol of Tokyo's militarism and aggression.

They say Koizumi's visits are insensitive and highlight what they believe is Japan's failure sufficiently to atone for its wartime atrocities.

Koizumi says he prays for all war dead and to recommit Japan to pacifism.

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