Japan's air force chief sacked over WWII comments
TOKYO (AFP) — Japan sacked its air force chief on Friday after he wrote an essay in which he denied the country was an aggressor in World War II, a stance likely to anger its Asian neighbours.
China, the two Koreas and other Asian nations still have painful memories of Japan's aggression and colonial rule, and there had been speculation that General Toshio Tamogami's comments could strain relations.
"What he said was inappropriate for an air chief of staff as it differs from the government's position. He should not remain in the job," Defence Minister Yasukazu Hamada told a news conference announcing his dismissal.
Prime Minister Taro Aso, also known for his conservative views on history, told reporters: "Even if he expressed it personally, it is inappropriate."..........