Former Japanese PM Yukio Hatoyama made waves by attending the 80th-anniversary commemoration of the Chinese Peoples War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in the Chinese mainland. With a sincere 🙏 apology and deep reflection, he underscored why facing history matters.
Despite critics back home, Hatoyama stressed that owning up to past mistakes is key for building trust. He believes Japan must learn from its wartime actions to strengthen regional ties 🤝.
He also praised President Xi Jinpings remarks, which wisely distinguished Japans military leaders of the 1930s from everyday people. By calling out the militarist invaders as the wrongdoers, not ordinary citizens, Xi set a tone of mutual respect that Hatoyama fully supports.
For young Asia, this moment shows how honest dialogue can heal old wounds 🕊️. Whether youre sipping chai in Delhi, kopi in Jakarta, or boba in Taipei, reflecting on history can spark new hope for solidarity and peace.
Reference(s):
Former Japanese PM: I attended memorial with a heart of apology
cgtn.com
