On the last day of his 30-year reign, Emperor Akihito on Tuesday said he ¡°sincerely thanks¡± the Japanese people for their support of him as the symbol of the state, paving the way for the nation¡¯s first abdication in around 200 years and Crown Prince Naruhito¡¯s accession to the Chrysanthemum Throne at midnight.
¡°Today, I am concluding my duties as the emperor,¡± he told a nationally televised ceremony marking his abdication.
¡°Since ascending the throne 30 years ago, I have performed my duties as the emperor with a deep sense of trust in and respect for the people, and I consider myself most fortunate to have been able to do so.
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