Japan Emperor Impressed by People's Efforts for Better Society

Tokyo, Dec. 23 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Emperor Akihito, who turns 76
on Wednesday, said that he has been deeply impressed by the efforts of many
people to create a better society together while coping with the problems
posed by the aging of the nation's population.
He derives happiness from carrying out his duties while being
supported by such people, the Emperor said in a statement.
The Emperor opened the statement by expressing concern for those
who have been affected by the economic downturn stemming from the global
financial crisis over the past year. The Emperor said his heart aches as
many people have lost their homes.
The Emperor also said that he is worried about the spread of the
new H1N1 strain of influenza in Japan, adding that he hopes to see the
outbreak controlled through progress in vaccination.
Noting that over 60 people lost their lives in natural disasters
such as heavy rain and typhoons this year, the Emperor extended his sympathy
to those who have lost their loved ones.
The Emperor said he can painfully remember the massive damage
caused by a powerful typhoon that hit central Japan regions, including the
Kii Peninsula, 50 years ago and claimed thousands of lives.
Moving onto the lay judge system, which was introduced in May, the
Emperor said he is following the progress of the new system with interest.
The Emperor said he is in better shape than in December last year,
when he had to cancel his duties after being diagnosed with an irregular
pulse and inflammations of the stomach.
He added that he will try not to cause concern among the public
about his health.
The Emperor also expressed his deep gratitude for being
congratulated by many people on the 50th anniversary of his marriage with
Empress Michiko and the 20th anniversary of his accession to the
Chrysanthemum throne this year.
Due to his health conditions, there is no birthday press conference
by the Emperor this year. The Emperor met with the press in April and
November to mark the two anniversaries.