PNoy Thanks Emperor Akihito For Maintaining Close Ties With Philippines

President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed gratitude to Japan’s Emperor Akihito recalling how the Philippines and Japan overcame challenges “during the dark episodes in the history of our nations.”

“It is, however, upon this history that we have built a far more enduring relationship,” Aquino said Wednesday during the state banquet in honor of the Japanese imperial couple. “Japan has been a consistent, able, and trustworthy partner, who has helped advance our people’s progress.”

Aquino cited that in 2014, Japan was the Philippines’ top trading partner and was the top source of the country’s active Official Development Assistance and Investment Promotion Agency-approved foreign investments.

Japan has likewise been “a vital partner in our peace process and the development of Mindanao”, as well as in the enhancement of the Philippines’ maritime and disaster management capabilities, Aquino said.

“You have also been a staunch ally in advancing the rule of law in our region,” he said.

According to the President, it was his fourth time to meet Their Majesties, first when he accompanied his mother, the late president Corazon Aquino, on her visit to Japan in 1986, and the others were during his visits to Japan as President.

“In all my encounters with Your Majesties, I have always admired the simplicity, sincerity, and grace you demonstrate,” he said.

The five-day state visit of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko comes at an auspicious time as the Philippines and Japan celebrate their 60th year of diplomatic relations.

In a separate statement, Emperor Akihito praised Aquino’s “sagacious and distinguished” leadership resulting in the country’s steady development as an active member of the Asian community. (PCOO/PND)