The Japanese emperor greeted well-wishers at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo for the first time in three years, reviving an annual New Year tradition that was paused during the Covid pandemic.
“Even today, wars and conflicts frequently occur worldwide, and I feel a deep sadness that many people have lost their lives. I strongly feel the importance of repeated dialogue and cooperation with others in the international community to overcome differences in stances,” said the 62-year-old emperor, according to a statement released in advance by the Imperial Household Agency on Sunday.
Naruhito was joined by Empress Masako, their daughter Princess Aiko, and other members of the family. Under Japan’s male-only succession law, Princess Aiko is forbidden from becoming empress. On Sunday, Naruhito attended a New Year reception at the Imperial palace with foreign ambassadors.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
New Yorkers look to ring in the New Year their own wayNot everyone is spending New Year's Eve sipping champagne! All around the city, New Yorkers are ringing in the New Year in their own way.
Read more »
New Year, New Celebrity Scramble -- Guess Who!Underneath this magical snowflake is a Broadway star with a wickedly amazing voice. Can you guess the scrambled star?
Read more »
It's New Year's Day: 13 Items to Start Your New Year Off RightNo matter your resolution, bring things into your life that will put you on track to become your best self in the New Year.
Read more »
Time zone by time zone, another new year sweeps into view - New York Amsterdam NewsNew Year's celebrations swept across the globe, ushering in 2023 with countdowns and fireworks — and marking an end to a year that brought war in Europe, a new chapter in the British monarchy and global worries over inflation.
Read more »