Japanese mayor apologises over US troops remarks but not on wartime 'comfort women'

The speaker issues an apology for remarks that were inappropriate and offensive to the US military and citizens, retracting the statement and expressing hope for continued strong US-Japan relations. The speaker discusses the lack of evidence supporting claims of state-organized abductions and human trafficking by Japan, as asserted by many historians and the Japanese government. The Kono Statement is criticized for avoiding key issues important to Korea, which is seen as a major reason for the ongoing tension in Japan-Korea relations.

What did the speaker apologize for in their statement?

What is the speaker's hope regarding the relationship between Japan and the United States?

What is the stance of many Japanese historians regarding the issue of abduction and human trafficking?

What was the Japanese government's conclusion regarding evidence of state-sponsored abduction and human trafficking?

According to the speaker, what is the main reason for the lack of improvement in Japan-Korea relations?