August 16, 2018

Japanese Communist Party Secretariat Head Koike Akira on August 15 attended a ceremony held in Tokyo to celebrate the 73rd anniversary of Korean liberation from Japanese colonial rule.

In the Gwangbokjeol (the day the light returned, Independence Day) ceremony hosted by the Korean Residents Union in Japan (Mindan), besides Koike, Dietmember Yamazoe Taku and Tokyo metropolitan assemblyperson Sone Hajime took part from the JCP as guests along with representatives of other political parties, including the Liberal Democratic Party. Koike on behalf of the JCP delivered a congratulatory speech.

Touching on the 1998 Japan-ROK partnership declaration, Koike said, "This was a historic document in which Japan, for the first time in a diplomatic note, stated that it caused 'tremendous damage and suffering to the people of the Republic of Korea through its colonial rule' and expressed ‘deep remorse and heartfelt apology' for the fact."

Koike continued to say, "The joint declaration also reaffirms that to deepen understanding of history is important for 'the peoples of both countries, the young generation in particular', and stresses 'the need to devote much attention and effort' to achieve this."

He stated, "This declaration is the very foundation for us to develop cordial friendships and exchanges with you. Using this declaration as guidelines, the JCP will make an all-out effort to build a true 'future-oriented relationship'."

Past related articles:
> Shii talks with S. Korean Ambassador on Korean Peninsula situation [March 23, 2018]
> JCP Koike in Mindan’s organ paper: Remorse over past war of aggression is basis for true Japan-S. Korea friendship [January 3, 2018]