A possible statement concerning Japan's militarist past causes concern

Regional players in the Asia-Pacific have shown sound judgment in keeping a close eye on Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's latest plan for a sensitive statement on historical and defense issues.

Observers said if Abe's revision plan defies his predecessors' previous comments on Japan's military past, it may "fuel further instabilities" in the region despite his recent pragmatic diplomacy gestures to ease tensions with neighbors.