22-9-2023 (HANOI) Hanoi welcomed Japan’s Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko with lines of flag-waving schoolchildren as they embarked on a visit to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Vietnam.
The royal couple began their visit by laying wreaths at the mausoleum of late President Ho Chi Minh, paying their respects to the revolutionary leader. They then proceeded to visit Ho Chi Minh’s former home, a traditional stilt house, and took part in the symbolic act of feeding fish in a nearby pond.
Prince Akishino, the younger brother of Emperor Naruhito, last visited Vietnam, which was once occupied by Japan, over two decades ago. This visit serves as an opportunity to strengthen the ties between the two nations.
Japan and Vietnam have maintained close diplomatic and trade relations, with Japan being considered one of Vietnam’s most significant economic partners. Vietnamese state media, citing Japanese government figures, reports that close to half a million Vietnamese people are currently residing in Japan.
During their five-day trip, the royal couple will tour the central city of Danang and visit Quang Nam province, which historically served as a trading hub for Japanese merchants in the 16th century.
Additionally, the Crown Prince and Crown Princess will meet with the families of former Japanese soldiers who chose to remain in Vietnam after World War II and fought for Vietnamese independence from French colonizers.
