His Excellency Shinzo ABE
Prime Minister of Japan
The Hague, 14 July 2020
Petition: 308
Subject: 75 years ago, World War Two ended on 15th August 1945.
Excellency,
Next 15th August we will remember that 75 years ago World War Two ended. A remembrance with grief and pain for the members of the Foundation of Japanese Honorary Debts and other survivors of the Japanese military occupation of Dutch East Indies. But also, for reflection and hope that the government and the people of Japan one day will accept moral responsibility for that occupation. The denial and lack of empathy continues to anger! It is shameful that the people of Japan and its present government neglect the traditional Japanese culture of honour and subsequent obligations. After more than 300 petitions we did not receive a personal reaction from the Prime Minister of Japan. This lack of innate refinement is unworthy of Japan and its people.
Prime Minster,
This year’s remembrance ceremonies will be restricted to very few attendants due to the Corona pandemic. His Majesty King Willem Alexander will be present at the ceremony and deliver most likely a historic speech. The sober ceremony will be widely followed on television and radio. Hopefully, his speech will console the many victims and their dependents unable to attend.
Prime Minister,
On Tuesday 11th August 2020, the Foundation of Japanese Honorary Debts will reconvene their traditional second Tuesday of the month demonstration. Since March, due the Corona pandemic, we had to cancel the demonstrations but were able to present our petitions, addressed to you as Prime Minister, to the Japanese Ambassador in The Hague. On that Tuesday, 11th August 3 days before our remembrance, it would be opportune to receive from you personally, through the Japan’s Ambassador in The Hague, a personal condolence and respect for the remaining survivors and the next of kin of the victims who died.
Prime Minister,
I will be looking forward to your personal condolence.
On behalf of the Foundation of Japanese Honorary Debts.
J.F. van Wagtendonk
President.
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