今日のテキスト ABE UPHOLDS PAST GOVT. POSITION

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has delivered a speech that many people around the world have been waiting to hear. He has issued a statement to mark 70 years since the end of World War II. Abe said he upholds the recognition of history taken by his predecessors, but he added some of his own thoughts.
The prime minister read out his statement at a news conference in Tokyo. He said Japan has repeatedly expressed feelings of deep remorse and heartfelt apology for its actions in the war. He also used the words "colonial rule" and "aggression." Leaders in neighboring countries had been watching closely to see if Abe would include those expressions.
The prime minister also spoke about "repentance" when describing Japan's pledge to follow a different course after the war. Abe explained his generation has a responsibility not to pass down the burden of history to future generations.
Also in his statement, the prime minister thanked countries that helped Japan rejoin the international community. He said his nation has worked hard to contribute to the Asian region in the years after the war. Abe vowed to make a greater proactive contribution to peace and prosperity.