Fukuda rules out visit to shrine

Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda ruled out yesterday a visit to Tokyo's Yasakuni shrine, seen by many in Asia as a symbol of Japan's past militarism, on the Aug 15 anniversary of the country's surrender in World War II.

Former prime minister Junichiro Koizumi upset China and the Republic of Korea by visiting the shrine when he was in power and Japanese lawmakers, including some serving Cabinet ministers, visit the Shinto shrine each anniversary to honor the war dead.

Asked whether he will go to Yasukuni shrine this month on the 63rd anniversary of Japan's surrender, Fukuda, who will attend the Beijing Olympics opening ceremony this week, told reporters: "Please look at my past behavior."