Japan’s top official apologized Friday for all the damage Japan caused in China during the wartime in a weak attempt to save political and economic relations between the two Asian tigers.

"In the past, Japan, through its colonial rule and aggression, caused tremendous damage and suffering to the people of many countries, particularly to those of Asian nations," said Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi during the opening of the Asia-Africa summit on Friday. "Japan squarely faces these facts of history in a spirit of humility and feels deep remorse and heartfelt apology," he added.

Japanese Prime Minister is expected to meet with Chinese President Hu Jintao these days. The meeting is aimed at resolving the conflict between two countries over the gas drilling issue that evoked mass protests in the major cities of China.

The relations between China and Japan are at the worst point since 1972, officials say.

The move of Japanese Prime Minister was called an attempt to avoid restrictions in the economic relations between the countries that worth $212 billion in annual trade.