Japan, Vietnam celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations with rare royal visit
- Japan’s Crown Prince Fumihito and his wife Princess Kiko arrived in Hanoi on Wednesday for six days, their first official visit since 1999
- The couple will meet the families of former Japanese soldiers who stayed on after World War II to fight for Vietnamese independence
Akishino, at a news conference last week, stressed the importance of deepening relations between Japan and Vietnam, noting their long history of cultural and economic exchanges dating back to the 16th century.
“Japan and Vietnam have a very close relationship”, Akishino said. “I hope we can contribute as part of an effort to promote friendly relations between the two countries”. He said it is particularly important for younger people to develop mutual understanding and respect for each other’s cultures through exchanges.
During their six-day visit, the couple is scheduled to meet with the families of former Japanese soldiers who stayed on after World War II to fight for Vietnamese independence.
They will attend a welcome ceremony hosted by Vietnamese Vice-President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and an event to mark the anniversary on Thursday before meeting with Vietnamese people who have studied in Japan the next day.
