[ad_1]
Japan’s Emperor Naruhito on Monday gave a New Year’s address and greeted public members for the first time in three years as the country eases COVID-19 pandemic restrictions amid a year-end surge in infections.
“The spread of the coronavirus has been difficult for everyone, but I am very pleased to be able to greet you again,” Naruhito told the flag-waving crowd at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
“We face many difficulties, but I hope for a peaceful and good New Year for all, and as the year begins, I pray for the happiness of people in Japan and around the world,” he added.
Naruhito, 62, was joined by other royals, including his wife, Empress Masako, 59, and his father, Emperor Emeritus Akihito, 89, who surrendered in 2019. The emperor’s daughter, Princess Aiko, 21, participated for the first time, according to the Imperial Household Agency.
About 9,600 people, split into six groups over the day, were chosen by lottery to attend the New Year’s event, a much smaller number than the tens of thousands that usually gather for the traditional royal greeting.
[ad_2]
Related Stories:
Mrs World 2022: Sargam Koushal brings back title to India after 21 years
NASA’s Cosmic Marvel: Hubble’s Capture of Virgo Galaxy Cluster, 52 million Light-Years Away
NASA Confirms Launch Date for Its Massive Moon Rocket
NASA’s Hubble Captures Ancient Star Cluster Born Over 5 Million Years Ago
SE7EN And Lee Da Hae Announce Marriage After 8 Years Of Dating
McDonald’s Japan hikes prices on about 80% of its menu from Jan. 16
China Takes Incredible Close Up Shot of Mars’ Moon Phobos
Sonam Bajwa: Acting and Dressing the Fashion Supernova
