I was deeply impressed by Hugh Cortazzi's column in the Aug. 18 edition ("Abe's unconvincing attempt to whitewash Japan's history") calling for Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to make a full confession of Japan's war-time aggression rather than a routine apology.

To have done that would have classed Abe as a statesman, rather than a captive of the political right wing. But history does provide examples of right-wing leaders making bold moves on issues that are in the national interest, even when opposed by right-wingers. A good example is French President Charles de Gaulle's action to end the Algerian independence war in 1962.

If Abe had been brave enough to confront Japan's past he might have brought a peaceful end to the apparently endless debate on the war issue. That would have won a place for him in history. As it is, Abe will be remembered as a second-rate politician whose actions served to divide Japan.

CHARLES SMITH

EDOGAWA WARD, TOKYO

The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.