International cooperation, particularly with developing nations, is crucial for tackling global issues like climate change, energy security, and food crises, stated Japanese Emperor Naruhito in a press conference. He made these remarks in anticipation of his first official state visit to Indonesia since ascending to the throne four years ago. Accompanied by Empress Masako, a former diplomat, the Emperor's week-long trip commences this Saturday.
The Emperor underscored the growing importance of partnerships with emerging and developing economies in addressing these shared global concerns. He expressed his hope that the visit would further strengthen the bonds of friendship and mutual understanding between Japan and Indonesia through collaborative efforts and people-to-people exchanges.
This visit holds particular significance as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of friendly relations between Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), with Indonesia currently holding the ASEAN chairmanship. Japan has been actively pursuing stronger ties with developing countries to address regional and global challenges, and it stands as Indonesia's largest provider of official development assistance.
As the first Japanese emperor born after World War II, a conflict fought under his grandfather Emperor Hirohito's name, Emperor Naruhito, 63, carries a unique historical perspective. Acknowledging the difficult period in Japan-Indonesia relations during the Japanese occupation of Indonesia (then the Dutch East Indies) from 1942 to 1945, the Emperor emphasized the importance of remembering the lives lost, understanding historical context, and fostering a commitment to peace. He shared that he learned about wartime experiences from his parents, Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko, and expressed his resolve to uphold their dedication to peace and atoning for the suffering endured during the war.
