"As stated by President (Joko Widodo), the visit to Indonesia is our first state visit. During our stay, we can deepen the understanding about diverse people and culture of this country," Naruhito stated in Bogor, West Java, on Monday.
During the joint press conference with Jokowi at the Bogor Botanical Park's orchid garden, the emperor said that his visit to Indonesia offers a momentum to study the country and efforts to promote bilateral friendship.
Naruhito is also upbeat that relations between Indonesia and Japan would continue to grow.
"This is a good opportunity. I also hope that the exchange of youth from our two countries would continue the development of friendship between our two countries," the emperor stated.
Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako were warmly welcomed by President Jokowi and First Lady Iriana on their arrival at the Bogor Palace earlier on Monday.
The emperor expressed gratitude for Jokowi's warm welcome and invitation to observe orchid collections at the Bogor Botanical Garden.
"(President Jokowi and Mrs Iriana) invited us for a stroll in the garden and showed us in detail the orchid collections. I wish to express my utmost gratitude to you," he affirmed.
He also expressed optimism that the president and the first lady would always remain healthy.
Emperor Naruhito's visit to Indonesia is in response to the invitation extended by President Jokowi during his visit to Japan in July last year.
The emperor's visit also 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.
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Translator: Indra Arief P, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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