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Japan's Emperor Akihito expresses "deep remorse" for war

By REUTERS

AUGUST 15, 2015 06:24

TOKYO - Japanese Emperor Akihito marked the 70th anniversary of the end of World War Two with an expression of "deep remorse" over the conflict, a departure from his annual script which could be seen as a subtle rebuke of conservative Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Abe on Friday expressed "utmost grief" for the suffering Japan inflicted in the war, but said future generations should not have to keep apologising for the mistakes of the past. He offered no fresh apology of his own.

"Looking back at the past, together with deep remorse over the war, I pray that this tragedy of war will not be repeated and together with the people, express my deep condolences for those who fell in battle and in the ravages of war, and pray for world peace and the further prosperity of our country," Akihito, 81, said at a memorial service on the anniversary of the day his father, Hirohito, announced Japan's defeat.

The soft-spoken Akihito has often urged Japan not to forget the suffering of the war and tried to promote reconciliation with Asian countries. His comments have attracted increased attention at a time when Abe appears to be pushing for a less apologetic tone towards Japan's past.

Akihito had expressed remorse previously but not at the annual service. The emperor is banned by the constitution from any political role, so his remarks need to be carefully nuanced.

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