Japan’s Emperor Naruhito has expressed gratitude for the welcome he and Empress Masako received on their official visits to the Netherlands and Belgium.
The Emperor traveled in the same car as King Philippe of Belgium to the southern city of Namur on Wednesday. About 40 people in colorful traditional costumes welcomed them with musical and other performances presented in front of the Citadel of Namur.
After overlooking the historical townscape from a high viewpoint, the Emperor spoke to reporters about his tour to the Netherlands and Belgium.
He said he wanted to express his sincere gratitude for the warm welcome the Imperial couple received from people everywhere they went.
The Emperor touched on their stay at castles used by the royal families as vacation homes until official events began in each country. He said he felt he was able to talk to members of the royal families of both countries in a very relaxing atmosphere and deepen exchanges.
The Emperor said he is very happy that the children of the kings and queens of the two countries have grown into fine young people. He said he thinks he was able to serve as a bridge for the next generation as he was also able to talk with the children and deepen exchanges.
The Emperor also mentioned the World War Two hostilities between Japan and the Netherlands. During his visit to the Netherlands, the Emperor and Empress laid flowers at a war memorial and observed a moment of silence.
He noted the importance of facing the past squarely and learning humbly from history, and said he thinks doing so will lead to the buildup of good bilateral relations.
The Emperor said that when he stood in front of the cenotaph, he really felt a strong sense of mourning for the victims.