Japan Crown Prince Shows Respect for Immigrants in Paraguay

Asunción, August 21 (Jiji Press) - During his official visit to Paraguay alongside his wife Crown Princess Kiko, Japanese Crown Prince Akishino paid tribute to the Japanese community residing in the South American nation. The ceremony, held in the capital city of Asunción, commemorated the 90th anniversary of Japanese immigration to Paraguay. With over 10,000 Japanese descendants living in the country, the Crown Prince acknowledged the significant contributions made by Japanese immigrants and their descendants.

Expressing gratitude to Paraguay for its acceptance of Japanese immigrants over the years, the Crown Prince emphasized the importance of the relationship between the two nations. Naoyuki Toyotoshi, a 90-year-old former Paraguayan ambassador to Japan and a first-generation Japanese immigrant, encouraged younger generations to continue bridging the gap between the two countries.

Later in the day, the Imperial couple met with members of the Japanese community. Ikuko Matsumiya, an 87-year-old immigrant from Tochigi Prefecture, remarked that the presence of the Imperial Family at such significant moments in the country's history inspires and motivates the community.