Imperial Couple Join Online Water Conference
Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended an online international conference on water and sanitation on Friday.
It was organized by former members of the UN Secretary-General's Advisory Board on Water Sanitation, which was active for more than 10 years from 2004.
The Emperor served as honorary president of the board when he was crown prince. Dutch King Willem-Alexander, who chaired the body, gave an opening address at the conference.
The Emperor delivered a speech in English. Imperial household officials say he called for global solidarity to resolve water-related issues.
Participants from more than 10 countries listened to lectures and held discussions on water hygiene and the outlook for securing a safe, clean supply around the world.
The Emperor is known for his studies on water. Officials say he eagerly took notes during the conference, which lasted more than two hours.