Mattarella Engages in Diplomatic Lunch with Japanese Emperor

Tokyo: President Sergio Mattarella on Tuesday had lunch with Japanese Emperor Naruhito in Tokyo, marking the first institutional engagement of his extensive state visit to Japan. The visit will also see the Italian president traveling to Kyoto and Hiroshima, highlighting the significance of the diplomatic mission.

According to Ansa News Agency, President Mattarella was joined by his daughter, Laura, who had the opportunity to meet Empress Masako. During a speech at the Diet, President Mattarella emphasized the strengthening ties between Italy and Japan, stating, “In recent years, the collaboration between Italy and Japan has grown in every direction.”

Furthermore, Mattarella noted the alignment between the two nations on international platforms, such as the United Nations and the G20. He remarked on the seamless transition in the presidency of the G7, attributing it to the shared values and mutual respect between Italy and Japan. The state visit aims to further “underline the trust and the great mutual esteem” between the countries, as part of a broader effort to expand collaborative efforts.