Message of Peace Marks WWII Surrender
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From Times Wire Reports
Japan’s prime minister marked the 58th anniversary of World War II’s end with apologies and messages of peace, even as prominent lawmakers visited a shrine criticized as glorifying militarism.
Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi expressed regret for the destruction inflicted by his country.
Every year Japan’s official message of peace competes with conservative lawmakers filing into Tokyo’s Yasukuni shrine -- used to whip up nationalist fervor during the war. The visitors included four members of Koizumi’s Cabinet.
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