Overview
- On December 12 in Tokyo, the imperial couple met about 70 recipients of the Health, Labour and Welfare Minister’s awards and their family members at the Imperial Palace.
- The honors recognize people with disabilities who have worked toward independence as well as supporters who advance disability inclusion in their communities.
- Emperor Naruhito offered congratulations and said he was pleased and encouraged by the recipients’ efforts to overcome disabilities and participate in society.
- A representative at the meeting pledged to remember the honor and to continue making lifelong efforts.
- The Emperor and Empress held personal exchanges with attendees, asking about their daily work, including a conversation with a man who runs an acupuncture clinic.