Japan emperor gives last New Year's speech

Hello there: Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko waving to well-wishers at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo after the address. — AFP

Tokyo: Japan’s Emperor Akihito delivered his final New Year’s address before his abdication later this year, telling tens of thousands of well-wishers that he was praying for peace.

The Imperial Palace said more than 114,600 people had flocked to the royal residence by early yesterday afternoon, with more still arriving for a final chance to see the 85-year-old royal deliver his traditional annual greeting.