The government of Japan recognizes that this issue was, with the involvement of the wartime military authorities, a grave affront to the honour and dignity of women. It has thus expressed its sincere apologies and remorse to former comfort women on many occasions. This is a good example of efforts made by the Japanese government, along with Japanese businesses, labour unions, politicians and above all, ordinary Japanese people, to work together to alleviate the pain and humiliation suffered during the war years. In cooperation with the Asian Women's Fund, assistance has been extended to women in the Philippines, the Republic of Korea and Taiwan. Work is ongoing in these countries, as well as in Indonesia and the Netherlands, aimed at resolving this issue.
Talks continue with representatives of other Asian countries.
Another matter for which Japan is constantly criticized is the teaching of wartime history. I would like to assure readers that Japan is keenly aware of the importance of history education. There are 33 official history textbooks currently used in Japanese schools. Each one covers wartime history extensively. Furthermore, education guidelines prepared by the Ministry of Education clearly encourage teachers to discuss with their students the historical background to events that took place during the Sino-Japanese war.