Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress attend a welcoming ceremony in Amsterdam
Quick Look
- During their visit to the Netherlands, Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress attended a welcoming ceremony at Dam Square in front of the Royal Palace in Amsterdam.
- The royal couple led them to the square, where they played the national anthem and paraded the troops.
- Their Majesties smiled and exchanged words as many citizens and Japanese school children watched.
AI-generated summary
Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress, who are visiting the Netherlands, attended a welcome ceremony on the morning of the 17th (afternoon of the 17th Japan time) at Dam Square in front of the Royal Palace in Amsterdam. His first event as a state guest.
As we walked from the Royal Palace to the square guided by King and Queen Willem-Alexander, a Dutch military band played the national anthems of both countries. His Majesty the Emperor inspected the army, navy, and air force that lined up.
Dam Square, located in the downtown area, is a place loved by citizens as a symbol of the city. The welcome ceremony was watched by many local residents. Children from the Japanese school also welcomed Their Majesties. Their Majesties exchanged words with smiles as they returned to the royal palace.
Afterwards, we headed back to Dam Square. Lay flowers at the War Memorial, which commemorates the victims of World War II, located opposite the Royal Palace. On the evening of the 17th (early morning of the 18th Japan time), there will be a dinner party at the Royal Palace, where His Majesty will give a speech.
During World War II, the former Japanese army invaded Indonesia, which was a colony of the Netherlands. Local Dutch nationals, including civilians, were interned and forced to perform harsh labor and poor treatment. After the war, the Imperial Household and the Royal Family worked hard to alleviate anti-Japanese sentiment and deepen friendly relations. [Amsterdam Nao Yamada]
