Emperor Akihito voiced hope Thursday that people all over the world will have a bright year in 2004, acknowledging that Japan faced severe economic and social conditions last year.
"I sincerely hope that this year will be a bright one for the people of Japan and the rest of the world," the Emperor said in a New Year's message released by the Imperial Household Agency.
"Last year . . . severe economic and social conditions continued to prevail in Japan," he said.
"Overseas, there were tragic incidents in which many lives, including Japanese, were lost. I can well imagine that there are many who have been enduring hardship and spending painful days," he said.
Two Japanese diplomats were ambushed and killed in Iraq in November, adding fuel to protests against the controversial dispatch of troops to the Mideast country.
The government may send nearly 1,000 noncombat troops of the Self-Defense Forces to assist in relief work in Iraq and has already sent a small advance unit following the U.S.-led invasion of the country.
"In this coming year, it is my hope that all of you will make every effort, helping one another, for people's own happiness and the further development of our country," the Emperor said.
He marks his 16th year on the throne in 2004.