oriented relationship of cooperation based on mutual understanding and confidence with Asian countries by squarely facing up to the past and correctly understanding history." Nearly 300 people gathered to protest Koizumi's past visits to Yasukuni Shrine and demanded that the prime minister show remorse for the victims of other Asian countries who suffered from Japan's military aggression. They said that by visiting the shrine some Japanese politicians have violated article 20 of the Constitution, which stipulates the separation of religion and the state, the news service said. The emperor also delivered a speech at the memorial service, praying for world peace and hoping that Japan will never wage war again. "Looking back on history, I ardently hope that the horrors of war will never be repeated," the emperor said in his message.
