Japan has continued its path as a pacifist nation for 70 years since the end of World War II based on its "deep remorse" over the war, according to a draft of the annual foreign policy report for this year.
The draft of the diplomatic bluebook for 2015, a copy of which was obtained by Kyodo News on Tuesday, also says Japan is determined to protect its territorial sovereignty as well as its territorial seas and airspace amid China's maritime incursions near the Japanese-administered, China-claimed Senkaku Islands.
Referring to Beijing's growing assertiveness at sea, the draft criticizes China for its continued efforts to "unilaterally change the status quo."
The move to include the expression "deep remorse" aims to give an impression that the administration of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is facing history squarely, political pundits say.
Referring to Japan's path in the postwar era, the draft says the country has contributed to the peace and prosperity of Asia and the world.
On the United States, Japan's key security ally, the draft document reiterates that the Japan-U.S. security alliance is the "linchpin of Japan's diplomacy and security."
Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida is expected to present the report to the Cabinet next Tuesday. The report will be translated in its entirety into English for the first time in nine years, reflecting the ministry's efforts to offer more information outside Japan.