Landmark Japanese apologies over the war More than seven in 10 Japanese support statements of “deep remorse” and “heartfelt apology” issued by prime ministers on the 50th and 60th anniversaries of the end of World War II --------------------------------------------------------- 1995 2005 2015 1995: In marking 50th anniversary, Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama expresses “deep remorse” and “heartfelt apology” over Japan’s “colonial rule and aggression” 2005: Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi issues similar statement of deep remorse for all victims and reaffirms pledge that Japan will never again take path to war 2015: Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s statement will be scrutinised as his Liberal Democratic Party pushes legislation that many Japanese believe violates pacifist constitution --------------------------------------------------------- 50th and 60th anniversary statements were appropriate… Appropriate Inappropriate Other 74% 13% 13% Survey by Asahi Shimbun of 3,000 people between March 11 and April 10, 2015 --------------------------------------------------------- Legislation allowing Japanese troops to fight overseas if Japan or a close ally is attacked, violates constitution… Violates constitution Does not violate constitution Other 56.6% 24.4% 19% Survey by Kyodo news agency, conducted July 17-18, 2015, sample size unavailable --------------------------------------------------------- Sources: Asahi Shimbun, Kyodo Pictures: AFLO/Kyodo/Newscom words 182