Prime Minister's Address to the Diet
June 9, 1995
(translation)
- I regard with all sincerity the fact that today the Diet has adopted this resolution, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the end of the war.
- At this time, 50 years after the end of the war, the basic thinking of the Government is as I have made clear in statements and addresses to the Diet, and is consistent with the contents of this resolution. The Government will undertake to ensure that the essence of this resolution, which reaffirms the determination for peace while learning from the lessons of history, will be embodied in Japan's policies.
- I would like to take this opportunity to express my most sincere condolences to all victims in Japan and abroad, and, based on our deep remorse for the past, to reaffirm my personal conviction that we must make every possible effort to build world peace.
(translation)
Resolution to Renew the Determination for Peace on the Basis of Lessons Learned from History
House of Representatives, National Diet of Japan
The House of Representatives resolves as follows:
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II, this House offers its sincere condolences to those who fell in action and victims of wars and similar actions all over the world.
Solemnly reflecting upon many instances of colonial rule and acts of aggression in the modern history of the world, and recognizing that Japan carried out those acts in the past, inflicting pain and suffering upon the peoples of other countries, especially in Asia, the Members of this House express a sense of deep remorse.
We must transcend the differences over historical views of the past war and learn humbly the lessons of history so as to build a peaceful international society.
This House expresses its resolve, under the banner of eternal peace enshrined in the Constitution of Japan, to join hands with other nations of the world and to pave the way to a future that allows all human beings to live together.
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