Seoul: The South Korean foreign ministry noted Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s remarks on the importance of facing history, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The ministry described these efforts as “desirable” for fostering cooperation between the two nations.
According to Yonhap News Agency, in a statement on Friday, Ishiba emphasized the significance of courage and integrity in confronting the past. He highlighted the principles of classical liberalism, which includes the tolerance of listening to others’ arguments, and the necessity of a healthy democracy as he reflected on the events of the war.
A foreign ministry official in Seoul stated that attention was being paid to Ishiba’s comments, especially as similar remarks were made by him during recent visits to the United Nations General Assembly and South Korea. The official expressed that it is beneficial for current and future cooperation that Japan’s leaders responsibly address historical issues to build trust between nations.
The bilateral relationship between South Korea and Japan has been strained by longstanding issues dating back to Japan’s colonial rule over Korea from 1910 to 1945, a period that ended with Japan’s defeat in World War II.