Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) considers the visit of Japan's Emperor Hironomiya Naruhito and Empress Masako a crucial occasion that will further strengthen the foundation of friendship between Indonesia and Japan.
The president made the statement after accompanying the royal couple to witness a collection of orchid plants at the Orchid Garden of the Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java, on Monday.
"The visit of His Majesty Emperor and Her Majesty Empress to Indonesia further strengthens the friendship foundation between our nations. Such a solid foundation is of the essence to further develop the two countries' strategic partnership, especially in the economic sector," President Jokowi affirmed.
The president said it was an honor for Indonesia, as the emperor chose the country as his first stop for his bilateral state visit along with the empress.
In his remarks, President Jokowi attached importance to the efforts to continue fostering the two nations' friendship, particularly when the world is currently facing myriad challenges.
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He also expressed hope that the visit of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako would serve as a proof of the sound level of friendship between both nations.
"May His Majesty Emperor, Her Majesty Empress, the imperial family, and the Japanese people always be blessed with happiness and prosperity," Jokowi stated.
Emperor Naruhito's visit to Indonesia is in response to President Jokowi's invitation during his visit to Japan in July last year.
The emperor's visit 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.
Furthermore, the emperor's visit constitutes a follow-up to his late father's efforts to foster harmonious relations with Indonesia.
The emperor's father, Emperor Akihito, along with Empress Michiko, had visited Indonesia in 1991 and were received by President Soeharto and First Lady Tien.
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