Abe publishes book outlining political views
(AP)
Updated: 2006-07-19 15:27
Chief Cabinet Secretary Shinzo Abe, the top contender to succeed Junichiro
Koizumi as Japan's prime minister, has published a book of political views he
hopes will appeal to young people.
Japanese Chief Cabinet
Secretary Shinzo Abe speaks during an interview in Tokyo July 14, 2006.
[Reuters] |
"Toward a Beautiful Country" outlines Abe's hawkish stance on revising
Japan's pacifist constitution and the legitimacy of the Japanese premier's
visits to Tokyo's controversial Yasukuni war shrine, a point of conflict with
China and other Asian neighbors, according to Kyodo News agency.
"I wrote the book to show the public what I have been thinking till now, what
kind of country I want Japan to be," Abe told reporters Friday. "I would
especially like young people to read my book."
The book sells for 767 yen (US$6.60; euro5.27).
Abe routinely tops public opinion polls as a favorite to replace Koizumi, who
have pledged to retire in September. He is known for promoting a more assertive
Japan in dealing with China and North Korea.
In the book, Abe stresses the importance of the Japan-U.S. alliance while
outlining the need to also develop stronger ties with India and Australia, Kyodo
said.
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