Marking the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi expressed regret Monday for Japan's past deeds against its Asian neighbors and vowed to make sure they never happen again.
"Our country caused damage and pain to many countries, especially the people of Asia, during the war," Koizumi said in a speech at the annual ceremony held at Nippon Budokan hall in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. "I profoundly pray for the souls of the war dead and the victims of war both at home and abroad."
The prime minister also pledged to make further efforts to boost friendly relationships with other nations and contribute to global peace and prosperity.