Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako and their daughter Princess Aiko pose during a family photo session for New Year at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. Emperor Naruhito in his New Year address released Monday expressed hope that people will continue to support each other with compassion in the coming year, while noting how the world has been grappling with ongoing conflicts and natural disasters. "I pray that the coming year will be a bright and hopeful one for people in our country and worldwide," the 63-year-old said in a statement. With the coronavirus pandemic tailing off, the emperor has been able to conduct more official duties with his wife, Empress Masako, in person in 2023. The emperor, together with other members of the imperial family, is set to hold a public New Year greeting event at the Imperial Palace on Tuesday.

Source: The Guardian January 01, 2024 14:16 UTC