A French newspaper says Japan has never expressed sincere regret to Korea or China for its wrongdoings during its colonization of both countries in the early 20th century, although it offered apologies for its militarist actions.

Leftist daily Libération said in a report, titled, "Japan: Tension on Islands," that Asia had not been able to escape from a lingering cold war atmosphere, unlike Europe.

The paper said small islands claimed by South Korea, China and Japan are causing tensions between Seoul and Tokyo and Beijing and Tokyo. The report also said the tension could lead to serious conflicts between the countires, backed by domestic public opinions regarding sovereignty issues.

The paper cited a researcher at the Paris Institute of Political Studies that China and Japan ignored United Nations pacts on marine territory and are only advocating for their own interests and rights.