Emperor Naruhito vows to fulfil responsibility as Japan’s ‘symbol

DPA, 01st MAY, 2019-Japanese Emperor Naruhito assumed the Chrysanthemum throne on Wednesday, saying he will fulfil his responsibility as a “symbol of the state and of the unity of the people of Japan” as his country marked the beginning of a new era.  

In his first address to the country, the 59-year-old emperor said: “[I] will act according to the constitution and fulfil my responsibility as the symbol of the state and of the unity of the people of Japan, while always turning my thoughts to the people and standing with them.”  

The emperor’s address came a day after his father Akihito renounced the throne, ending his 30-year reign with Japan’s first abdication in 202 years.  

Akihito, now emperor emeritus, “performed each of his duties in earnest for more than 30 years, while praying for world peace and the happiness of the people, and at all times sharing in the joys and sorrows of the people. He showed profound compassion through his own bearing,” Emperor Naruhito said in a ceremony at the Imperial Palace.