Hosting a celebration for the 84^th birthday of HIM Emperor Akihito, yesterday, the new Japanese Ambassador to Tonga recognised the friendship between the Royal household of Tonga and Imperial Household of Japan. 

HE Mr Tetsuya Ishii, who arrived in Tonga in November hosted a reception at his residence, with the Guest of Honour the Princess Royal Princess Salote Mafile’o Pilolevu and Lord Tuita

The Emperor's birthday “is a day of countrywide celebration for the people of Japan,” said Ambassador.

Tonga's caretaker Prime Minister, Hon. ‘Akilisi Pohiva and members of his caretaker Cabinet were present to toast the Emperor on his birthday.

Referring to the diplomatic relations between Tonga and Japan, the Ambassador said that, “Our relations are expecially built upon, and continue to flourish through the cordial bonds between the Imperial Household of Japan and Tonga’s Royal Household."

“I sincerely wish to continue strengthening the precious relations between your Kingdom and Japan,” he said.

This year marks the 47^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.