Japan's new emperor pledges to act according to constitution
- 4 years ago
Emperor Naruhito formally proclaimed enthronement today... as dignitaries from across the globe closely watched.
And in his speech, he promised to fulfill his role according to Japan's constitution.
But the constitution is something his Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, has long sought to change.
Our Eum Ji-young has more.
Before some 2,000 foreign dignitaries around the world, including the UK's Prince Charles and Japanese officials, the 59-year-old emperor's ascension was formalized at the Imperial Palace... where he was accompanied by Empress Masako.
Dressed in a dark orange robe worn only by emperors on special occations, he took his seat on the so-called Chrysanthemum Throne to cheers from his courtiers and guests.
"I will always wish for the welfare of this country and for world peace. I will approach the people while acting according to Japan's constitution and will fulfill my duties as the symbol of the country."
The Emperor's remarks could be contrasted with those of Prime Minsiter Shinzo Abe, who is pushing to amend Japan's constitution, which was drafted by the U.S. after World War Two.
He has long said the constitution should state clearly the role of the Self-Defence Forces, which are a de facto military... despite the constitution's ban on Japan having such a force.
At the ceremony, Abe delievered a congratulatory speech on behalf of the nation and then shouted "banzai" which in Japanese means "long live the Emperor."
Eum Ji-young Arirang News
And in his speech, he promised to fulfill his role according to Japan's constitution.
But the constitution is something his Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, has long sought to change.
Our Eum Ji-young has more.
Before some 2,000 foreign dignitaries around the world, including the UK's Prince Charles and Japanese officials, the 59-year-old emperor's ascension was formalized at the Imperial Palace... where he was accompanied by Empress Masako.
Dressed in a dark orange robe worn only by emperors on special occations, he took his seat on the so-called Chrysanthemum Throne to cheers from his courtiers and guests.
"I will always wish for the welfare of this country and for world peace. I will approach the people while acting according to Japan's constitution and will fulfill my duties as the symbol of the country."
The Emperor's remarks could be contrasted with those of Prime Minsiter Shinzo Abe, who is pushing to amend Japan's constitution, which was drafted by the U.S. after World War Two.
He has long said the constitution should state clearly the role of the Self-Defence Forces, which are a de facto military... despite the constitution's ban on Japan having such a force.
At the ceremony, Abe delievered a congratulatory speech on behalf of the nation and then shouted "banzai" which in Japanese means "long live the Emperor."
Eum Ji-young Arirang News