Credit:UN/DPI Photo by Michelle Poire

Junichiro Koizumi

(Angus Reid Global Scan) - Many adults in Japan believe their prime minister should try to foster relations with two neighbouring nations, according to a poll by Mainichi. 76 per cent of respondents say Junichiro Koizumi is not doing enough to improve diplomacy with China and South Korea.

Earlier this month, China saw widespread demonstrations against Japan after the publication of a new book to be used for formal study in Japanese schools. Some critics say the new text minimizes wartime abuses committed by Japan's military during the occupation of China from 1931 to 1945. South Korean president Roh Moo-hyun also expressed concern, saying, "Japan's attitude does not fit with the universal values that must be sought by human society."

On Apr. 12, Chinese premier Wen Jiabao criticized Japan's intention to become a permanent member of the United Nations (UN) Security Council, saying, "Only a country that respects history, takes responsibility for past history and wins over the trust of the people in Asia and the world at large can take greater responsibility in the international community."

On Apr. 13, Japan announced it would allow oil and gas exploration in waters disputed with China. Koizumi dismissed assertions that the move was related to the current diplomatic rift, saying, "This is a separate matter."

On Apr. 19, Koizumi defended his visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, saying, "Each country has its own history, tradition and different views. I go there to pledge not to fight a war again and offer my condolences to the war dead."

The Yasukuni shrine commemorates Japan's 2.4 million war veterans, and has been visited by three sitting prime ministers since the 1980s. China and South Korea usually condemn these appearances, saying they amount to an official endorsement of Japan's aggression during World War II.

Polling Data

Do you think prime minister Junichiro Koizumi is doing enough to improve Tokyo's relations with Beijing and Seoul?

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