Emperor Naruhito spoke with reporters, looking forward to his visit to the UK while also expressing regret over wartime conflict between the two countries. Published on By On June 19, His Majesty the spoke to the media at the 's Shakkyo-no-Ma drawing room. The press conference comes ahead of Their Majesties' state visit to the United Kingdom on June 22.
His Majesty said he hopes this visit will further enrich the longstanding friendship between Japan and the UK. During the press conference, the Emperor emphasized specific points of interest for this visit. Prominent among them is his hope to nurture intergenerational relations and "historical exchanges" with England.
Furthermore, he expressed sincere regret over the wartime conflict between both nations. Additionally, he related learning about interactions with the and their shared commitment to peace from Akihiko. "I intend to firmly uphold these sentiments," Emperor Naruhito affirmed.
also underscored foreign visits as "a vital cornerstone" of the imperial family's commitment to international goodwill. Originally, the Emperor was scheduled to visit Great Britain in 2020 at the invitation of . However, the trip was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2022, after the Queen's passing, the Emperor and Empress attended her state funeral. Emperor Naruhito lamented that he could not visit during her lifetime. His Majesty also conveyed his concern for and other members of the royal family who are combatting illness.
"We are .
