Vietnamese PM to attend Japanese emperor's enthronement ceremony

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Le Thi Thu Hang said Thursday that Phuc would participate in official events of the ceremony per an invitation from the Japanese government, and would meet bilaterally with world leaders who are also attending them.

"Vietnam sincerely congratulates the royal family and the Japanese people on Emperor Naruhito’s enthronement," said Hang.

She said Phuc’s visit would show Vietnam’s respect and desire to strengthen relations with Japan more comprehensively and practically.

"Vietnam believes the deep strategic partnership would continue to be fostered for the benefits of the two countries’ peoples, for peace, cooperation and development in the region and the world," Hang said, adding that Vietnam has also sent a congratulatory note on the occasion.

Emperor Naruhito succeeded his father, former Emperor Akihito, and ascended the throne on May 1, ending the Heisei era and beginning the Reiwa era.