Japanese opposition parties pointed out on Monday that Japan needs to make further effort to prevent the recurrence of the cruel war it waged on other Asian countries 60 years ago.

The largest opposition Democratic Party of Japan said in a statement that Japan once picked the road of war, and that its colonial ruling and aggression brought tremendous damage and agony to the Asian countries.

"We should by no means forget to make sincere retrospection on the history of aggression. Meanwhile, we are expressing our apology. It is a critical task and responsibility for Japan to exert further effort to realize the peace in Asia as well as the world," the statement said.

The Japanese Communist Party said Japan launched that aggressive war in a bid to control other countries' territories and resources, and destroy the lives of the peoples. Should the Japanese government move to justify the aggression, Japan would see its doom in Asia.

The Social Democratic Party pointed out that on the 60th anniversary of Japan's defeat, an alarming tendency is emerging in Japan to turn the clock back. If Japan cannot face up to the history and make genuine reflection, it will be impossible for Japan to enjoy the trust of the Asian peoples.

(Xinhua News Agency August 16, 2005)