Finally, historical issues could still resurface to cause new problems.

On the contrary, should the negotiations fail, the confrontation will resurface in short order, and be far more dangerous.

Also, internal divisions and tensions that have thus far been suppressed in the name of unity against the north could resurface.

So it should be no surprise that old injuries are likely to resurface. Some Chinese, especially those who are not economically successful, harp bitterly on Japan s past depredations.

Mr. Decaux concluded by raising the issue of time limits normally governing such institutions, noting that work done by truth and reconciliation commissions sometimes was not completed and should be continued in some form by other institutions because otherwise the same issues would resurface years later.