Japan’s Emperor and Empress have welcomed Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his wife at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
This was the first official reception of a state guest at the palace in six years.
This year marks the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Brazil.
The president and his wife Rosangela da Silva arrived at the Imperial Palace on Tuesday morning, and were greeted by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.
The Emperor introduced Crown Prince and Princess Akishino, as well as Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and other dignitaries.
They then attended a welcome ceremony in a palace garden. After the national anthems of the two countries were played, the president received a salute by the Self-Defense Forces’ guard of honor.
The Emperor and Empress later talked with the presidential couple for about 30 minutes.
Lula expressed his gratitude for Japan’s cooperation in various fields, including soil improvement projects and hybrid vehicle technology.
Emperor Naruhito responded warmly to the president’s appreciation of bilateral ties.
After their talks, they reportedly posed for a photo in front of a mural depicting the tide at daybreak by Japanese master painter Higashiyama Kaii.
The president and his wife were invited to attend a banquet at the place later in the day.
Lula became the second state guest to visit Japan since the Emperor ascended the throne in 2019. Emperor Naruhito met Lula when he visited Brazil as the crown prince 17 years ago.
AloJapan.com