Japan's Emperor Naruhito greeted the public Saturday for the first time since his succession, expressing hope for Japan to keep pursuing peace.
Naruhito ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne on Wednesday, a day after his 85-year-old father, Akihito, abdicated.
From a balcony overlooking the palace ground, Naruhito thanked throngs of well-wishers for congratulating him.
"I am deeply grateful and pleased that I am receiving celebration from you all today," said Naruhito, wearing a formal suit and standing next to his wife, Empress Masako.
"I wish for your health and happiness, and sincerely hope that our country pursues world peace hand in hand with other countries and will develop further."
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content