4 days ago
Japan Emperor meets Laos president, discuss Princess Aiko's upcoming tour
TOKYO -- Japan's Emperor Naruhito met with Laotian President Thongloun Sisoulith at the Imperial Palace here on May 30. With this year marking the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, Princess Aiko, the only daughter of the Emperor and Empress Masako, is scheduled to travel to Laos in November in her first official visit overseas.
During the meeting, President Thongloun stated that he is much honored to welcome Princess Aiko to his country, and Emperor Naruhito responded, "She is very much looking forward to the visit."
Thongloun also expressed that he highly appreciates the activities of Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers dispatched to Laos from Japan, noting that people-to-people relationships are supporting ties between Japan and Laos. The Emperor explained that he has met those volunteers upon their return to Japan, and said, "It's a great pleasure that you appreciate their activities."
