We Are Tomodachi Summer 2015

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12 Back in June 1957, Nobusuke Kishi, my grandfather, standing right here, began his address by saying, and I quote “It is because of our strong belief in democratic principles and ideals that Japan associates herself with the free nations of the world.” Thank you so much, Ambassador Kennedy, for all the dynamic work you have done for all of us. A lady named Catherine Del Francia let me live in her house when I spent a spell in California. She was a widow, and always spoke of her late husband saying, “You know, he was much more handsome than Gary Cooper.” My wife, Akie, is there. I don’t dare ask what she says about me.Full text: http://japan.kantei.go.jp/97_abe/statement/201504/uscongress.htmlToward an Alliance of HopeExcerpts from the Address to a Joint Meeting of the U.S. Congressby Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Delivered in Washington DC, April 29, 2015American Democracy and Japan As for my family name, it is not “Eighb,” as former President Lincoln was affectionately known. The son of a farmer-carpenter can become the President . . . Our encounter with America was also our encounter with democracy. Before coming over here, I was at the World War II Memorial. More than 4,000 gold stars shine on the wall. I gasped with surprise to hear that each star represents the lives of 100 fallen soldiers. I believe those gold stars are a proud symbol of the sacrifices in defending freedom. History is harsh. What is done cannot be undone. With deep repentance in my heart, I offer my eternal condolences.World War II Memorial In the gallery today is Lt. Gen. Lawrence Snowden. Seventy years ago, he landed on the island of Iōtō, or Iwo Jima, as a captain in command of a company. Concerning the memorial services held jointly by Japan and the U.S. on Iōtō, he said, and I quote, “We didn’t and don’t go to Iwo Jima to celebrate victory, but for the solemn purpose to pay tribute to and honor those who lost their lives on both sides.” Next to General Snowden sits Diet Member Yoshitaka Shindo, who is a former member of my Cabinet. His grandfather, General Tadamichi Kuribayashi, whose valor we remember even today, was the commander of the Japanese garrison during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Enemies that had fought each other so fiercely have become friends bonded in spirit. I pay tribute to your efforts for reconciliation.Late Enemy, Present Friend Postwar, we started out on our path bearing in mind feelings of deep remorse over the war. Our actions brought suffering to the peoples in Asian countries. We must not avert our eyes from that. I will uphold the views expressed by the previous prime ministers in this regard.America and Postwar Japan Prosperity is nothing less than the seedbed for peace. We must take the lead to build a market that is fair, dynamic, sustainable, and is also free from the arbitrary intentions of any nation. We cannot TPP

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