Regarding the Sept. 30 article "110,000 protest history text revision order": It surprises me that in a democratic country like Japan a single ministry (education) is able to affect internal and international politics so negatively. Okinawans are not the only ones who have criticized past and present Japanese governments for their insensitive attitude toward the responsibilities of the Japanese military during World War II. Time and again this insensitivity has backfired on Japan's standing and reputation in the international community.
I cannot imagine that continuing this attitude will help Japan to gain a permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council. And it will continue to provide negative ammunition to competing countries who relegate Japan to a position less than it deserves in the local and world community of nations.
While saving face might be an understandable motivation for the conservative elements of the current government in Japan, it becomes a ridiculous undertaking when one stands exposed already.
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.