From Chinese Press

Japan needs to walk its talk about historical remorse

By Deng Yushan and Feng Wuyong (Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-08-11 15:30

Ten years later, then Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi also released a statement reflecting on the historical issues. That same person, however, insisted on visiting the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors 2.5 million Japanese war dead, including 14 Class-A war criminals from World War Two. Koizumi's move deeply hurt the feelings of the peoples of all the nations victimized by Japan's wartime occupation.

Following Kan's apology, Japan's conservative groups did not hesitate to voice their dissatisfaction and opposition. When learning late last month of the government's intent on delivering an apology, one of the conservatives even claimed that Japan's colonization promoted economic development on the Korean Peninsula.

Different voices were also heard from inside the DPJ, which prompted Kan to say, hours after his apology, that legal matters have already been "completely settled" as Japan and South Korea both relinquished the right to demand compensation in a 1965 treaty.

The compensation issue, which Kan said will not be revisited, still triggers bitter controversy between the two countries.

For its part, South Korea offered a carefully worded response. While welcoming Kan's remarks, its foreign ministry stressed that Seoul wants to "see Japan as a whole, including the opposition parties and the people, and not just the prime minister, give a sincere, heartfelt apology."

The response conveyed the deeply rooted doubt of Asian countries over Japan's flip-flopping attitudes toward history issues.

Accordingly, Japan has seen its ties with its Asian neighbors frequently go awry, damaging its own interests.

What should be learned is that only when establishing a right consensus among its public on historical reflection, will Japan be able to mount a consistent diplomatic policy and realize real "historical reconciliation" with its neighbors, no matter who or which party holds the helm.