'Sense of solemnity': Japan emperor assumes throne

Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attend a ceremony called Sokui-go-Choken-no-gi, his first audience after the accession to the throne, at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, May 1, 2019. Japan, Reuters reports.

“When I think about the important responsibility I have assumed, I am filled with a sense of solemnity…I also swear that I will act according to the Constitution and fulfill my responsibility as the symbol of the State and of the unity of the people of Japan, while always turning my thoughts to the people and standing with them. I sincerely pray for the happiness of the people and the further development of the nation as well as the peace of the world.”