The Emperor proposes a toast with Britain's King Charles during a banquet at Buckingham Palace in London on June 25th (©PA/Kyodo News)
On his state visit to Britain, Emperor Naruhito of Japan told King Charles III that bilateral relations between the two nations have never been more robust.
Both sides hailed the benefits of a close friendship based on mutual understanding, especially during an era of uncertainty and unprecedented global challenges. The King emphasized that Japan and Britain share values rooted in freedom, democracy and the rule of law.
Emperor Naruhito delivered a speech in perfect English at a state banquet. Empress Masako, Queen Camilla, and William, Prince of Wales, also attended the event.
The BBC reported that the menu included poached langoustines, basil mousse, Cornish turbot, quail eggs, sorbet and peaches.
It was a dinner culminating a day of pageantry, beginning when Prince William met the visitors at their hotel. He then accompanied the Imperial Couple to a meeting with the King on Horse Guards, part of a cavalry regiment that guards the Royal Family.
The royal party then traveled back to Buckingham Palace in a carriage procession. During the ride, Empress Masako wore a white face mask. According to the BBC, this was because she suffers from an allergy to horse hair.
In the afternoon, following a private lunch at Buckingham Palace, the Emperor and Empress viewed a special exhibition in the Picture Gallery which included items from the Royal collection relating to Japan.
Health Concerns
During his speech at the banquet, Emperor Naruhito noted many ways in which Britain and Japan have collaborated. Those included medical research into the treatment of cancer.
He proposed a toast to the health of King Charles. While this is a formality, it took on a special significance. The King was diagnosed with cancer in February. This was the first state visit he has hosted since then.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, is not expected to meet the visitors.
The King's sister, Princess Anne, was due to be at the state banquet. However, she was also absent. She is recovering from a concussion and a minor head injury following an accident involving a horse.
Royal Humor
Both the King and the Emperor made frequent light-hearted references to times they have enjoyed in each other's countries. Apparently, the Emperor was taught to fly fish by the young Charles in Scotland when he was a prince.
"I am only sorry to report that I haven't had any better luck with more recent attempts at fishing," said the King. Then he referred to his grandchildren, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
He also joked about the Japanese card-collecting craze Pokemon.
"The Pokemon phrase 'gotta catch 'em all' may resonate with my grandchildren. But for me, it is, perhaps, aspirational..." he joked.
Serious Messages
As the state visit is taking place during an election campaign, it does not include a meeting with the Prime Minister at Downing Street. However, senior political leaders from the major parties were invited to attend the banquet at Buckingham Palace.
The speech by King Charles was not political but it did touch on serious issues. There was a pointed reference to defense. "I know that our countries are collaborating ever more closely to provide for our shared security. Our armed forces are exercising and sharing experiences together at a great level, as befits two powers with an enduring commitment to peace and global security," said the King.
The Emperor praised the King for his passion and sense of urgency in alerting the world to the dangers posed by climate change and the loss of biodiversity.
In the afternoon before the banquet, the Emperor laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey. The tomb commemorates the sacrifice of soldiers who have been killed in war.
"This is a visit which unites two royal households and celebrates their shared experience and friendship," concluded the BBC's Royal Correspondent Daniella Ralph.
The Emperor's agenda over the next few days includes visits to a scientific research institute. He will also meet with young musicians and performers.
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Author: Duncan Bartlett, Diplomatic Correspondent
Mr Bartlett is the Diplomatic Correspondent for JAPAN Forward and a Research Associate at the SOAS China Institute. Read his other articles and essays.
