Princess Kako, the younger daughter of Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko, vowed on the occasion of her 20th birthday Monday to give her best when she takes on her official duties.

"I should fulfill my duties and put value in every task I receive rather than focus on whether I am interested in it," the princess said at a customary pre-birthday news conference.

She is scheduled to make her first public appearance as an adult member of the Imperial family on Friday, when Emperor Akihito, Empress Michiko and other members of the family will greet well-wishers at the Imperial Palace in central Tokyo.