CRI听力:Japan SDP Leader Criticizes Abe over Shrine Visit

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to the Yasukuni Shrine last months continues to create repercussions for the leader and his country.

Tadatomo Yoshida, President of the Japanese Social Democratic Party, is now adding his voice to the chorus of critics.

"Abe's visit to the Yasukuni Shrine is a very serious issue. It is unforgivable, because the Yasukuni Shrine houses Class-A war criminals. Obviously people will doubt Abe's recognition of history."

The Yasukuni Shrine is seen by Japan's Asian neighbors as a symbol of the country's past militarism and imperial ambition.

Meanwhile, Yoshida also slams Abe's attempts to revise the country's pacifist constitution.

He says the Abe administration should stick to peaceful development and improve relations with neighboring countries through diplomatic efforts.

"Japan should again see clearly the importance of the pacifist constitution, and fully assume the roles of the pacifist constitution. We of the SDP will seek national public opinion to oppose the government's attempt to revise the constitution."

Yoshida's Social Democratic Party has long called for reflection on Japan's history of aggression, and insists on peaceful development.