Tri-Service
Japan's PM Expresses 'Profound Grief' For All Who Died In WWII
To mark the 70th anniversary of Japan's surrender during the Second World War, the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has spoken of his "profound grief" and his "eternal, sincere condolences" at his country's role in World War Two, during a 25 minute address live on national television.
"Upon the innocent people did our country inflict immeasurable damage and suffering. History is harsh. What is done cannot be undone. Each and every one of them had his or her life, dream and beloved family. When I squarely contemplate this obvious fact, even now, I find myself speechless and my heart is rent with the utmost grief."
Shinzo Abe added:
"The peace we enjoy today exists only upon such precious sacrifices."
Victory over Japan Day, known as VJ Day, will be marked across the UK tomorrow (Saturday), with Her Majesty The Queen leading the 70th anniversary commemorations at a ceremony in London.
After Victory in Europe was declared in May 1945, British military personnel in the Far East continued to be at war and many were still in prisoner of war camps.
It only came to an end after the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, which forced the Japanese to surrender and marked the end of the Second World War.
The next day, August 15th, was hailed Victory Over Japan Day, or VJ Day.
Shinzo Abe went on to say generations not involved in the conflict should not be burdened with continued apologies.
"We must not let our children, grandchildren, and even further generations to come, who have nothing to do with that war, be predestined to apologise."
Tomorrow's ceremony in London, meanwhile, will include a military march past down Whitehall, rehearsals for which are taking place this afternoon.
Click here for more, as we remember VJ Day.
Library Picture: Flickr / Chatham House / 2013
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