(Mainichi: February 28, 2015 – p. 5)

 The government posted on its website an outline of the minutes of the first meeting on Feb. 25 of a panel of experts holding discussions to help Prime Minister Abe draw up a statement to mark the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. The 16 members of the panel exchanged views on history and some members said that they should focus on “future-oriented” discussions on that Japan should work on, including international contributions.

 According to the outline, Taizo Nishimuro, chair of the panel, expressed his hope that he “would like to hold discussions with an eye on future generations.” Shinichi Kitaoka, deputy chair, emphasized that “it is important to have a perspective of thinking about Japan in the world without separating Japanese history from world history.” (Abridged)