// Imperial Household Agency/Kyodo
Empress Masako turns 62; she reflects on peace after visiting World War II memorials
This year, Empress Masako, reflecting on the meaning of peace, celebrated her 62nd birthday. This event followed her trips to World War II memorials and an official visit to Mongolia with Emperor Naruhito.
As a result of her travels to war-affected sites, the Empress shared her thoughts in a statement released by the imperial court: “I have deeply contemplated the many precious lives lost in various corners of the world, including my homeland. At each of these places, I expressed my sincere condolences to the deceased.”
The couple began their commemorative visits in April on Iwo Jima, where a fierce battle took place between Japan and the United States during World War II. In June, they visited the prefectures of Okinawa and Hiroshima, and in September, Nagasaki.
In order to pass on the memory of the war to future generations, the Empress met not only with the families of the victims and survivors but also with youth engaged in “storytelling.” During visits to Okinawa and Nagasaki, their daughter, Princess Aiko, joined them.
“As the number of people who experienced the war continues to decline, we were very grateful for the opportunity to hear their personal stories,” the Empress noted.
The Empress also thanked former Emperor Akihito and former Empress Michiko for sharing their experiences over the years. She emphasized the importance of learning the lessons of history, preserving peace, and reflecting on how to maintain it.
During their visit to Mongolia in July, the Imperial couple was invited to a state banquet hosted by President Khurelsukh Ukhna and his wife, as well as to the opening ceremony of Naadam, the country's largest annual festival.
The Emperors also visited a national park, enjoying its natural beauty, and laid flowers at a memorial for Japanese who died in Soviet captivity after the war.
“While laying flowers, I reflected on the suffering and loss of those who perished under harsh conditions in Mongolia, thinking of my own loved ones,” the Empress shared.
Fondly recalling their trip to Mongolia in July, the Empress and Emperor Naruhito described the visit as “truly memorable,” highlighting the friendship between the two nations and respect for the victims of war.
The Empress also expressed condolences regarding natural disasters that occurred both in Japan and abroad, and noted her concern about the increasing number of bear attacks in the country.
Among more joyful news, the Empress highlighted the achievements of two Japanese scientists who received Nobel Prizes, as well as the successes of baseball player Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who received his fourth MVP award this year.
She expressed kind words for the members of the imperial family and those who supported Princess Aiko during her first official trip to Laos last month.
The Empress, a former diplomat and Harvard University graduate, has been facing adjustment disorder since 2003.
// Imperial Household Agency/Kyodo
In a separate statement, medical professionals reported that treatment is ongoing, and the Empress appreciates the opportunity to interact with the public. Despite careful monitoring of her condition, her health remains unstable, and she may feel fatigued after significant events or prolonged engagements.
Tatar S. Maidara
source: MiddleAsianNews
