TOKYO, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said during his first day of Diet questioning that there are "various debates" about who is responsible for World War II.
Abe, who was asked various questions about his understanding of Japanese history, said "Japan caused tremendous damage and suffering, particularly to the peoples of Asian nations, through its past colonial domination and aggressive actions," the Asahi Shimbun reported Monday.
When asked whether Class-A war criminals were responsible for bringing Japan into World War II, Abe said there were "various debates" on the matter.
"I do not think it is appropriate for the government to take a specific stance," he said.
Abe also refused to confirm whether he will visit the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors Japanese soldiers killed in the war, including some considered war criminals.
"My personal belief is what I have said in the past, which is that I have no intention of declaring if I will or will not visit Yasukuni," he said.
