BRASILIA – Japanese Princess Kako expressed hope that Japan’s friendly ties with Brazil will “continue for many years to come” during a speech before its congress Wednesday, as the two countries mark the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
“It is truly delightful to celebrate together and reflect on the relationship between our two countries, which is rooted in a long history,” said the niece of Emperor Naruhito at the ceremony in Brasilia, which also commemorated the arrival of Japanese immigrants in Brazil more than a century ago.
“I feel appreciation for the friendly relationship built by many people, including those who moved from Japan to Brazil and their descendants,” said the princess in kimono, thanking Brazilian society for accepting Japanese immigrants.
Brazil is home to the largest community of Japanese immigrants, with about 2.7 million people living there.
The first group of Japanese immigrants arrived in Brazil in June 1908 under a government policy at the time to encourage emigration in the wake of an economic downturn and a growing population. But many died due to the harsh living conditions and exposure to malaria.
The 30-year-old younger daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko attended a luncheon hosted by the Brazilian government after the ceremony and offered a toast in Portuguese.
In the afternoon, she paid a courtesy call on President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and conveyed a message from the emperor and Empress Masako that said they wished for the continuous development of the friendly relationship between the two countries.
Princess Kako is scheduled to visit eight cities during her trip to Brazil, which began June 5, before returning to Japan on Tuesday.
BY: The Times Union – KYODO
