ABDICATION OF JAPAN’S EMPEROR AKIHITO

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That this House recognises the decades of service of Japan’s Emperor Akihito and his wife, Empress Michiko, as he abdicates the throne after a 30-year reign; notes his dedication to his public duties as a symbol of the state; commends his efforts to ease the painful memories of war and the aftermath of several natural disasters while bringing the Japanese monarchy closer to its people during the Heisei era, meaning achieving peace; wishes Prince Naruhito, who will become Japan's 126th emperor every success as he leads the country into the new Reiwa, meaning beautiful harmony, era.