S/ Takahashi Erena, NNN Brasília/ Princess Kako’s official visit with President Lula was moved forward by one day.

Princess Kako visited Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at the Presidential Palace in Brasília on June 11.

The niece of Emperor Naruhito expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and relayed a message from the emperor, in which he wished for the promotion of friendship and goodwill between the two nations.

The princess has previously met with President Lula during his visit to Japan in March of this year.

Ahead of the meeting with the president, Princess Kako attended a luncheon at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to commemorate 130 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Brazil.

The princess made a speech to the luncheon guests.

S/ Princess Kako/ At my home in Japan, we have a Brazilian ipe tree that blooms every year. I wish that the efforts of those involved are rewarded and that the many blossoms (of friendship between the two nations) will flower beautifully.

Princess Kako will be in Brasília until June 12.