Adopting the right approach
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The Japanese government's stance on the issue has evoked mixed responses from both the ruling and opposition parties, as well as the general public.
Some have called it a sign of the ruling DPJ sticking to its pre-election campaign commitment. Opponents, however, have questioned the nation's need to apologize to the ROK on historical issues.
Kan's approach is an extension of the previous four governments' stance on the issue, and is a gesture worthy of praise since it has come at a time when the DPJ-led government is in a difficult situation politically.
Kan's position is expected to help smooth Japan's relations with China further. Tokyo's attitude toward historical issues and the Taiwan question has been the most important political basis for a stable Sino-Japanese relationship. A solid political foundation will consolidate bilateral ties in an all-round manner.
Japan's close ties to the United States will continue to undergo some change during Kan's tenure. Kan's position on the pacifist nature of Japan's constitution, especially at a time of simmering tensions in East Asia, symbolizes his Cabinet's determination to adopt a peaceful foreign policy strategy.
Whether or not Japan should abandon such an attitude on the right of collective self-defense has long been an important political issue within the nation. Kan's unambiguous comment, the first on the issue after he assumed power, will be positive for East Asia.
Whether he can firmly carry forward this approach despite strong opposition from domestic conservative forces still remains to be seen.
Some members of the House of Councilors have denounced Kan's move to apologize to the ROK, calling it a betrayal of the Japanese people and its history.
Some Japanese media outlets have depicted the country as a victim of World War II, and stopped short of questioning its wartime record of aggression. This demonstrates a lack of proper understanding of historical issues by the Japanese media.
Japan could develop rapidly after World War II only because it was able to look squarely at past mistakes and embark on the road to peace.
A clear approach to history will help Japan build friendly, peaceful and harmonious relations with its Asian neighbors.
The author is director of the Center of Chinese Diplomacy Studies, China Foreign Affairs University.
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