Extracts From The Statement by Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama - August 31, 1994

'Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the end of the war. Taking this opportunity, I would like to say a few words of explanation on the basic thinking behind Japanese external policy to make the historic anniversary truly significant...

Japan's actions in a certain period of the past not only claimed numerous victims here in Japan but also left the peoples of neighbouring Asia and elsewhere with scars that are painful even today. I am taking this opportunity to state my belief, based on my profound remorse for these acts of aggression, colonial rule, and the like caused such unbearable suffering and sorrow for so many people, that Japan's future path should be one of making every effort to build world peace in line with my no-war commitment.

.......I would like to announce 'Peace, Friendship, and Exchange Initiative' to start in the 50th anniversary,1995. I see this as a two part initiative.

One part consists of support for historical research, including the collection and cataloguing of historical documents and support for researchers, to enable everyone to face squarely to the facts of history.

The other part consists of exchange programs to promote dialogue and mutual understanding in all walks of life through intellectual exchange, youth exchange and so on......

This Initiative calls for the disbursement of about 100 billion Yen over the next ten years, with the details now being worked out within the government for inclusion in the next year's budget.......

Along with the Initiative by the government, I would like to find out, together with Japanese people, an appropriate way which enables a wide participation of people so that we can share such feelings.

.......While almost half a century has passed since the end of the war, a vast majority of people today have not experienced the war. In order to make sure that the horrors of war be never again repeated, we should not forget about the war. It is all the more essential in this time of peace and abundance that we reflect on the errors in our history, convey to future generations the horrors of war and the many lives that were lost, and work continuously for lasting peace. I believe that this is the responsibility which the political leadership and the Administration of Japan should bear together with each and every Japanese.

Alec & Celia Pease, two of the founders of the National               
Federation of Far East Prisoners
of War, sharing reminiscences
with Pacific Venturers during an orientation session

Regal treatment