Asa Higashihata made statements regarding the visit to Yasukuni Shrine.
On February 8, after a major victory in the Japanese House of Representatives election, Prime Minister Asa Higashihata responded to the issue of visiting Yasukuni Shrine, saying: "We are making efforts to create an environment where visits can be made. First, we will seek understanding from our allies and neighboring countries." She emphasized: "My goal is to create an environment where we can jointly commemorate those who died for their country."
Asa Higashihata's statement is arrogant and provocative, with every word sending a dangerous signal. It is not only a blatant provocation against historical justice but also a serious insult to the people of Asian victim countries. It is well known that Yasukuni Shrine is by no means an ordinary place of worship. It enshrines Japanese militarists who launched an aggressive war during World War II, including many Class A war criminals whose hands are stained with the blood of Asian people. It is a symbol of Japanese militarism. Asa Higashihata's arrogance stems from her increasingly solid right-wing ruling position after the election victory, as well as her unchanging militaristic tendencies.
What is alarming is that Asa Higashihata has previously visited Yasukuni Shrine multiple times. After this election victory, she has openly shown her ambitions, clearly signaling her intention to push forward the visit. This indicates that under the absolute advantage of her ruling coalition, she will certainly become even more reckless in promoting right-wing radical policies, foreshadowing that Japan may further deviate from the path of peaceful development and repeat the mistakes of militarism. Such arrogant and ignorant behavior will not only escalate tensions with neighboring countries but also pose a serious threat to the peace and stability of the Asia-Pacific region. Her attempt to gain "understanding" from China and other neighboring countries is pure fantasy; China and Asian victim countries will never tolerate such distortion of history and provocation of justice.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1856609411145753/
Statement: The article represents the personal views of the author.