MFA SPOKESMAN'S COMMENTS
Asked whether Singapore had any reaction to the controversy over the revision of a Japanese history textbook, the MFA Spokesman said:
"It is unfortunate that the textbook authorities in Japan had chosen to approve this rather strange interpretation of the Pacific War in Asia. It has strained relations between Japan and its neighbours, in particular China and Korea. This is not in the interest of the entire region.
History should not be denied. But we hope that the countries concerned can keep emotions in check and work towards a solution so that, while history is properly remembered, it does not become an insurmountable problem in the development of good relations."
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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
22 APRIL 2005