President Roh Moo-hyun has called on Tokyo to seriously think through the concerns and fears of its neighbors over Japan's recent moves to cultivate a more assertive role for its military.

Roh made the remarks at the presidential office Thursday during a meeting with members of the South Korea-Japan Parliamentarians Union. Among top Japanese lawmakers present at the meeting was former prime minister Mori Yoshiro.

Presidential spokesman Kim Man-soo quoted Roh as saying that Japanese politicians, in particular, should try to put themselves in the shoes of Japan’s neighboring countries, stressing that respect for the position of other countries is imperative for peace and co-prosperity in Northeast Asia.

Roh stressed that history issues being raised between Seoul and Tokyo are very delicate but nevertheless must be addressed, given their degree of importance.

He was quick to add, however, that in dealing with such issues, lawmakers of both countries should implement appropriate measures so that emotions between the two nations do not boil over into enmity.

In response, Mori said he supports Roh’s argument, adding that Japan should reflect on its past wrongdoings and work with its neighbors to create a peaceful atmosphere in the region.

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