Overview
- Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako held their first meeting with Nepal President Ramchandra Poudel and his wife at the Imperial Palace on February 3.
- The Emperor showed photos he took during a 1987 visit to Nepal, described the country as very beautiful, and presented several images to the presidential couple.
- He recounted seeing women drawing water in 1987 as a moment that spurred his interest in water issues, which he has continued to study.
- Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met President Poudel at the Kantei, affirmed plans to deepen ties in the 70th year of diplomatic relations, and the Prime Minister’s Office released an official record with photos of the honors and talks.
- Exchanges included condolences and thanks over the 2015 Nepal quake and Japan’s 2011 disaster, while President Poudel expressed gratitude for Japan’s support, invited the imperial couple to visit, and the prime minister skipped a handshake due to a hurting hand.