Japanese Emperor Naruhito met with visiting Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on March 30.

The emperor welcomed the president at the Imperial Palace, where the two exchanged handshakes with smiles before the meeting.

Emperor Naruhito reportedly spoke about his visit to Indonesia in June 2023 with Empress Masako, which was their first international goodwill visit after he ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne in May.

Emperor Naruhito reportedly told the Indonesian President that he was deeply impressed by the Borobudur Temple, a Buddhist World Heritage site.

He also expressed his gratitude for Indonesia’s assistance following the Great East Japan Earthquake in March 2011.

At the luncheon, the emperor recalled meeting people in Indonesia who were studying Japanese and said he hopes they will serve as a bridge between Japan and Indonesia.

He also expressed appreciation for the many Indonesians who have come to Japan as exchange students, nurses, and in other roles, contributing greatly to Japanese society.