Hanoi: Japan’s emperor arrived in Vietnam for a whirlwind tour that will include a meeting with families of Japanese soldiers who stayed there after World War II.
The emperor and empress were received by Vice-President Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh and guards of honour at the Hanoi airport yesterday, where national flags were displayed.
The 83-year-old Akihito and his wife Michiko are on their first visit to the country, the latest in a series of trips to former battlegrounds.
“It is our hope that our visit to Vietnam will contribute to the further development of the mutual understanding and friendly relations between our two countries,” Akihito said.
The pair will fly to Thailand on Sunday to pay respects to King Vajiralongkorn. — AFP
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
