Crown prince declines to discuss revised Imperial House Law
The crown prince became the first imperial family member to speak at a news conference since its enactment.
Crown Prince Akishino avoided addressing the recently passed revised Imperial House Law during a news conference in Tokyo. He expressed that he wished to avoid discussing the law, which aims to ensure a sufficient number of members within the Imperial Family. The law permits the adoption of male descendants from the former imperial branches and maintains the imperial status for female family members after marriage.
Crown Prince Akishino echoed the sentiments of Emperor Naruhito, who had expressed hope that dialogues on the number of imperial family members would gain public understanding. The prince affirmed that societal progress is crucial, suggesting that various individuals should contemplate the "how" of things. He hoped his son Prince Hisahito and daughter Princess Kako would lead fulfilling lives.
The crown prince and his wife, Crown Princess Kiko, are set to travel to Paraguay for the 90th anniversary of Japanese emigration to the country. This is Akishino's first visit to Paraguay in 20 years following the birth of Prince Hisahito. Both expressed gratitude for the visit and paid their respects to Japanese immigrants and descendants, acknowledging their role in bridging Japan and Paraguay. The couple also extended condolences to the victims of a recent earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture.
Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.