Japan's apology

We are glad that in the end Japan has felt it proper to extent an apology to other Asian countries. This kind of attitude deserves commendation. The question at present, however, is whether such an apology is of such importance for the building of closer relations between Japan and other countries of Asia.

Without overlooking the lives of Asians lost during World War II and without disregarding history, we think forcing Japan to apologize is not the most important thing to do at this time. The global realities that exist at present should open the eyes of Japanese, and Asians in general, of the importance of promoting a new spirit of Asian solidarity inspired by a drive towards progress and greatness.

If Asians find it necessary to make demands on Japan due to this spirit of Asian solidarity, it should be that Japan must refrain from practicing economic imperialism, that Japan should not view Asia as a mere market but rather as a partner.

As Japan continues to cover the world with its maze of investments, it will at one time feel the need for an instrument to protect those investments. The most enticing option would be to do so by military force. Thus, it is not impossible that at one time Japanese militarism will rise again.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta