Tokyo service commemorates 700 Chinese murdered following 1923 Kanto quake
Emphasizing that history cannot be forgotten, and tragedies must not be repeated, she called for all insightful people to remain highly vigilant and prevent any reversal of historical progress.
"We solemnly urge Japan to adhere to the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan, honor its commitments to acknowledge, face, and reflect on its history of aggression, and to act with caution on historical issues. Only by doing so can Japan truly earn the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community through concrete actions," she said.
Mizuho Fukushima, leader of the Social Democratic Party of Japan and a member of the Upper House, attended the memorial service and offered condolences to the victims of the massacre.
"By holding these memorial services and gatherings, we can collectively acknowledge the issues that occurred, such as the massacre, and ensure that everyone understands what the problems were," said Fukushima.
Over the years, petitions and requests regarding the massacre have been repeatedly submitted to Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but while officials listen, they have not yet acknowledged the facts of the massacre.
Fukushima said the public must insist that the Japanese government acknowledge these facts and offer an apology.
"We must fight against discrimination and xenophobia and ensure that peace and equality prevail," she said.
"This is not just a story from 101 years ago. This issue continues to this day, and we must ensure that neither the government nor the people repeat the same mistakes."