Contrite Japan premier marks surrender anniversary
Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso expressed deep regret over the suffering the country had inflicted on Asia during World War II in a solemn ceremony that marked the 64th anniversary of Tokyo’s surrender in the war.
Mr Aso joined some 4,800 bereaved families to pay their respects to Japan’s 3.1m war dead at the Nihon Budokan hall in Tokyo today.
Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko also attended the ceremony, leading a one-minute silence at noon.
Mr Aso said in a speech at the nationally televised ceremony: “Our country had inflicted tremendous damage and suffering on many countries, particularly people in Asia. As a representative of the Japanese people, I humbly express my remorse for the victims, along with deep regret.”
