Japan Emperor Naruhito, marking his 64th birthday, expressed heartfelt condolences for the lives lost in a powerful earthquake that shook central Japan on New Year\u2019s Day, as reported by Kyodo He extended sympathy to those displaced by the disaster and expressed his desire to visit affected areas on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture alongside Empress Masako.<\/p>\n
Speaking at a press conference held at the Imperial Palace ahead of his birthday, the emperor conveyed his deep sorrow for the multitude affected and compelled to evacuate due to the calamity. \u201cMy heart truly aches for the many people who have been affected and those who have been forced to evacuate,\u201d he remarked solemnly.<\/p>\n
According to Kyodo News, expressing hope for smooth progress in recovery and reconstruction efforts, Emperor Naruhito appreciated the dedication of professionals engaged in relief and medical support activities. Reflecting on positive strides made over the past year, the emperor highlighted the easing of novel coronavirus restrictions.<\/p>\n
He noted the government\u2019s decision to downgrade the legal status of COVID-19, aligning it with seasonal influenza, as a significant development. \u201cIt was a year in which we could clearly see bright developments in the process of people\u2019s daily lives returning to normalcy,\u201d the emperor remarked, as per Kyodo News.<\/p>\n
Naruhito expressed joy in resuming his duties, attending various ceremonies and events in line with the easing of COVID restrictions. \u201cI had heartwarming moments when I directly listened to a variety of people and saw their smiles at the places I went,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
In June last year, the emperor visited Iwate Prefecture, northeastern Japan, where he attended the national tree-planting festival and engaged in conversations with survivors of the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami disaster. \u201cI was touched by their tireless efforts despite numerous challenges,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Expressing gratitude towards Empress Masako, the emperor acknowledged her continued support over their 30 years together. He also shared his delight in Princess Aiko\u2019s decision to join the Japanese Red Cross Society in April, expressing hope for her personal growth through diverse experiences.<\/p>\n
\u201cI hope she will further broaden her horizons by gaining various experiences,\u201d he said. The emperor, together with other members of the imperial family, waved to well-wishers from a balcony at the palace on today\u2019s morning. While those wishing to attend do not need to apply in advance, unlike last year, the number of people allowed entry to each of the three greeting sessions is capped at 20,000 to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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