His Majesty the Emperor's New Year Thoughts

2011

Last year, due to the long spells of intense heat in many parts of the country and the continuing severe economic conditions, people faced various hardships in their lives, and my heart goes out to them.

I hope that people will cherish their family and community ties and support one another to overcome these challenges they are facing. I also hope that they will work together with the people of the world and do their utmost in pursuit of peace and stability.

It is my hope that the new year will be a good year for the people of Japan and the people of the world.