Japanese navy officers visit war memorial

By DYLAN MURRAY
MEMBERS of the Japanese Armed Forces yesterday visited Remembrance Park in Port Moresby to pay respect to soldiers who died during World War Two.
They arrived on the flagship JS Izumo.
Commanding officer Captain Takemasa Jo said it was one of the most important part of their four-day visit to Port Moresby.
Jo said the visit was to strengthen the existing relationship between the two countries and advance cooperation between their armed forces.
“Coming to pay our respect was the most important part of this visit,” he said.
“Thousands of Japanese soldiers, as well as Papua New Guineans, lost their lives during the second world war.”
The Japanese Imperial Army had invaded the former Territories of New Guinea and Papua in 1942 – New Guinea in January and Papua in July.
This resulted in heavy losses for Japan – about 202,100 soldiers, sailors and airmen.
The ceremony at Remembrance Park involved the laying of two wreaths.
Members of the PNGDF band and Japanese military band played the national anthems.
Jo said they enjoyed their visit, taking a tour of Port Moresby and interacting with the people.
They leave on Tuesday.