PM announces Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan to visit Canada

Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced today that Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan will visit Canada from July 3 to 14, 2009.

“This year marks the 80th anniversary of the establishment of Canada’s first diplomatic mission in Japan,” said the Prime Minister.  “It is an honour for Canada to welcome their Majesties on this special occasion.  Their visit next month clearly demonstrates the warmth and importance of the relationship between our two countries.”

Their Majesties will travel to Ottawa, Toronto, Victoria and Vancouver.  During their visit they will have the opportunity to meet many Canadians, including representatives of the Japanese-Canadian community.

This will be Emperor Akihito’s first visit to Canada since he visited as Crown Prince in 1953, touring several Canadian cities en route to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

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