Society

Emperor, Empress welcome Luxembourg's Grand Duke

Nov 27 (NHK) - Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko have welcomed Luxembourg's Grand Duke Henri and his daughter, Princess Alexandra, at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

The Grand Duke is visiting Japan as a state guest along with his daughter.

On Monday, the Emperor introduced them to Crown Prince Naruhito and his wife, Princess Masako, as well as to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, upon their arrival at the palace.

During a welcoming ceremony, the 2 countries' national anthems were played. The Grand Duke then received a salute from a Ground Self-Defense Force honor guard and carried out an inspection.

About 140 people, including students from a nearby elementary school, joined the event, waving small flags of Japan and Luxembourg.

Later in the day, the Emperor and Empress will hold a welcoming banquet at the palace.

This year marks the 90th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the 2 countries. Japan's imperial family and the family of Luxembourg's Grand Duke have had close ties for many years.

Last year, Emperor Akihito expressed concern that his advanced age may someday make it difficult for him to carry out his duties. In June of this year, the Diet enacted a bill to allow him to abdicate.

Source: ANNnewsCH

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