Japan PM expresses remorse over WWII

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed deep remorse on Friday over World War II and said previous national apologies were unshakeable, but emphasised future generations should not have to keep saying sorry.

In a closely watched speech just ahead of the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII, the nationalist premier appeared to tread a fine line between regret over Japanese wartime aggression while also focusing on what his pacifist country had done since the end of the conflict.

“Japan has repeatedly expressed feelings of deep remorse and heartfelt apology for its actions during the war.... we have consistently devoted ourselves to the peace and prosperity of the region since the end of the war,” Abe said.

“Such position(s) articulated by the previous cabinets will remain unshakable into the future.”