Jokowi Says Emperor Naruhito's Visit To Bogor Palace Strengthens Indonesia-Japan Friendship

President Joko Widodo gave a press statement with Japanese Emperor Hironomiya Naruhito and Empress Masako at Griya Anggrek, Bogor Palace (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Indonesian President Joko Widodo said the state visit of Emperor Hironomiya Naruhito and Empress Masako to Indonesia further strengthened the foundation of friendship between the people of Indonesia and Japan.

This was conveyed by the President after accompanying Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako to see a collection of orchid plants at Griya Anggrek, Bogor Palace, West Java, Monday.

"The visit of the Emperor and the Empress to Indonesia has further strengthened the foundations of friendship between our peoples. A solid foundation like this is needed for the development of a strategic partnership between our two countries in the future, especially in the economic field," said President Jokowi in a press statement at Griya Anggrek, Bogor Palace, quoted by ANTARA, Monday 19 June.

President Jokowi is honored that Indonesia is the first destination country for Emperor Naruhito's bilateral state visit with the Empress abroad.

In his remarks, President Jokowi considered that the friendship between the people of Japan and Indonesia is important to continue cultivating, especially in the midst of the various challenges the world is currently experiencing.

The visit of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako is expected to make a good impression on the friendship between Indonesia and Japan.

"May happiness and prosperity always accompany the Emperor and the Empress, the imperial family and the people of Japan," said the President.

Emperor Naruhito visited Indonesia at the invitation of Indonesian President Joko Widodo who visited Japan in July 2022.

The Emperor's visit coincides with the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Japan, as well as the 50th anniversary of cooperation between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Japan.

Emperor Naruhito's visit also follows in his father's footsteps in building good relations with Indonesia.

The father, Emperor Akihito, together with Empress Michiko visited Indonesia in 1991 and were received by President Soeharto along with Mrs. Tien Soeharto.