Crown Prince Naruhito, who turned 58 on Friday, vowed to "pursue self-improvement" ahead of his accession to the Chrysanthemum Throne on May 1, 2019.
Speaking about the emperor's constitutional role as symbol of the state in the upcoming new era, the Crown Prince said, "I think ... what people expect in official duties will change according to social changes, and it would be important to respond to new demands. I would like to sincerely perform official duties accordingly."
The Crown Prince made the comments at a news conference held prior to his birthday, marking the first occasion for him to share his thoughts in public since the timing of Emperor Akihito's abdication was set for April 30, 2019.