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President Ilves and Japanese Emperor Akihito recalled important events in the histories of their two countries

24.05.2007

“I am glad to acknowledge that our peoples hold many similar and everlasting values. We highly value peace and the opportunity for free self-realization—these are natural parts of being a person,” said President Toomas Hendrik Ilves at the Kadriorg Palace today at an official luncheon given in honor of the Emperor and Empress of Japan.

In his speech, the Estonian Head of State recalled the years 1868-1869, when a time of great change commenced in the history of both nations. “The enlightened reign of Emperor Meiji opened new horizons for Japan. At the same time, the Estonians gathered for a song festival in Tartu, and this solidarity grew into the precondition for the development of a nation-state in Estonia, which was then part of the Czarist Empire,” said President Ilves.

In his remarks, the Japanese Emperor also recalled dates that unite the two nations, “I ascended to the throne in 1989, the same year that the Baltic Chain, which started in Tallinn and united the three Baltic countries, attracted the attention of the world,” said Emperor Akihito. “In 1991, I learned that the three Baltic states were the first countries to free themselves from Soviet power, and I remember the emotions that this powerful course of history created in me,” he added.

According to the Japanese Emperor, Estonia, as a part of Europe, has resolutely traveled the road toward democratization as well as economic and social development. “I would like to express my sincere esteem for the profound wisdom and perseverance of the Estonian people.”

After the formal luncheon the Japanese Imperial couple went to a concert at the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds.

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