[ad_1]
The Japanese monarch expressed deep sorrow for the victims of conflicts around the world and stressed that dialogue is important for resolving them
Japan’s Emperor Naruhito made his first public birthday address today since he ascended the throne nearly four years ago, following a postponement due to the COVID-19 outbreak. He called for support for people struggling with inflation and the pandemic, Reuters reported.
“Many are experiencing difficulties in their daily lives because of the pandemic and rising prices,” Naruhito said at a press conference for Japanese media held at the palace shortly before his birthday. Hours later, he stepped out onto the palace balcony to receive congratulations and well-wishes from the thousands of people gathered.
“My heart breaks when I think about the vulnerable people who are already old, who have disabilities and need support, as well as the destitute and their children,” the emperor said.
“Still, it’s encouraging and I’m grateful that there are many who support vulnerable people,” added Naruhito.
Naruhito, who turned 63, was crowned emperor on May 1, 2019, after his father Akihito became the first emperor to abdicate in two centuries.
In his address, the Japanese emperor expressed deep sorrow for people who are victims of conflicts around the world, stressing the importance of dialogue and cooperation without naming specific countries, the Associated Press reported.
The emperor’s public addresses on his birthday are an annual tradition, but since 2020 the event has been postponed due to the pandemic.
Last month, Naruhito also resumed the tradition of a New Year’s address for the first time since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, as the country lifted restrictions and returned to normal life.
Naruhito was accompanied by his wife Empress Masako, their 21-year-old daughter Aiko and his brother Crown Prince Akishino, who was also with his wife and daughter.
The number of attendees was limited to fewer than 5,000 people, chosen from more than 60,000 applicants, the imperial court said. Before the pandemic, everyone had the right to attend the emperor’s public statements.
“I am happy that my birthday is celebrated for the first time in public,” Naruhito said.
At his press conference, the emperor also expressed his deep gratitude to Empress Masako for having spent more than half of her life with him.
Illustrative Photo by Carlo Obrien: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cityscape-of-tokyo-japan-15591332/
[ad_2]
Source link