美国“失望”日本地区紧张局势加剧（在线收听）

The United States has joined China and South Korea in criticizing Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for visiting the Yasukuni Shrine.

In an email interview, a US State Department spokesperson told CCTV that although Japan is a valued ally and friend, the US is disappointed that Japan’s leadership has done something that will exacerbate tensions with Japan’s neighbours. The United States hopes that both Japan and its neighbours will find constructive ways to deal with sensitive issues from the past, to improve relations, and to promote cooperation in advancing the shared goal of regional peace and stability.

Many American media outlets have also criticized Abe’s shrine visit. The New York Times says his visit to the controversial shrine will only lead Japan away from pacifism. And the Washington Post says the visit is a provocative act.