Abe to express remorse for war

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Monday that his government would express remorse for the Second World War on the 70th anniversary of its end in August. Abe is known for his nationalist views and many analysts have speculated that he may play down Japan’s responsibility for the war. He said Monday the government would draft a new statement “that includes Japan’s remorse for the war,” though he stopped short of saying it would apologize. His comments will be closely watched not only in Japan but also in neighbouring China and South Korea, both victims of Japanese aggression.