Aquino to go on 4-day state visit to Japan in June

By: Matikas Santos - 9 years ago

President Benigno Aquino. AP FILE PHOTO

President Benigno Aquino III will be in Japan for a state visit from June 2 to 5, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in a statement Friday.

“As a State Guest, the President will be received by His Majesty Emperor Akihito and Her Majesty Empress Michiko at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo for a Welcome Ceremony and a State Call. Their Majesties will also host a State Banquet in honor of the President,” DFA said.

“The President will also hold a meeting with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, during which the two leaders will discuss the enhancement of the Philippine-Japan Strategic Partnership and exchange views on recent regional developments. Prime Minister Abe is scheduled to host a dinner for the President after their meeting,” it said.

READ: Aquino backs Abe’s bid to amend Japan charter for stronger military

The visit will be Aquino’s sixth to Japan. His most recent visit was nearly a year ago in June 24, 2014.

“The State Visit of the President is taking place at an auspicious and important juncture in bilateral ties, which are presently at their most dynamic and excellent levels heading into the 60th anniversary of relations next year,” the DFA statement said. DPL