Japan commemorates World War II surrender

Japan has marked on Monday its 66th anniversary of surrender in during the World War II.

"We again feel a deep sadness for those who died and for their families," Emperor Akihito Kan, whose father made the exceptional 1945 national radio address announcing the war could not be triumphed.

Kan added, "Looking back on history, we fervently hope not to repeat the tragedy of war." He also encouraged his countrymen, who are now also in a recuperating stage (after being hit by Tsunami in March this year) to apply the experience, hope and courage they got from their defeat during the Second World War.

His speech also contained words of humility, asking every citizen to remember that "We caused great suffering and pain to many countries, especially in Asia, in the war and we must deeply reflect, while paying our respects to the many victims and their families."

The event is being observed every year by the people of Japan and is considered a time of reflection and commemoration of the war's devastating final months, as well as on the bloody battle of Okinawa in June and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, both in early August. — ARA