Address by Her Majesty the Empress (1998)

Address Delivered by H.M. Empress Michiko on the occasion of the 30th Anniversary Ceremony of The Asian Ladies Friendship society (November 18, 1998)

Princess Hitachi, Mrs.Miki, Mrs. Chew, dear friends,

May I first of all congratulate you on the 30th anniversary of your Asian Ladies Friendship Society. Over the years, news has often reached me of your splendid work, both cultural and charitable, and your annual fund-raising event, now well-known to the public by the name of ‘Asian Festival’. I very much appreciate the great efforts you have been making so selflessly down the last thirty years.

I am delighted that this society has chosen to name itself a ‘Friendship Society’. You gather together so that you can come to know more about the people of other Asian countries and their respective cultures. I always think it is good to learn about other countries, not only through books and mediatic sources of information, but by direct human contact with their people themselves. It is a genuine pleasure to develop a love for another country because we know people there whom we may truly call our friends.

On this occasion of your Society's 30th anniversary, I once again congratulate you on your past achievements, and in the same spirit as yourselves, pray for peace among all our nations. My best wishes to you all, and for the future of your fine Society.