JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER Shinzo Abe's statement on Friday, one day ahead of the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II in which fascist Japan was defeated, will be closely scrutinized by China and the Republic of Korea for signs of whether Abe has learned the lessons of history. Comments:

A great nation should have the courage to face up to its past, shameful or not. Denying history is a betrayal of the country, and denying past crimes is a crime in itself. The Abe administration should render a sincere apology for Japan's invasion of its neighbors and colonial rule in Asia before and during WWII. In particular, Abe should admit Japan's wartime aggression and due responsibilities in his upcoming statement. Otherwise, it will be impossible for Japan to reconcile with its neighbors or contribute to the international community in the future.

Sha Zukang, former United Nations under-secretary-general for the department of economic and social affairs, Aug 10