Netherlands: King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands are hosting Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan on their official state visit. The Dutch Royal Family and the Japanese Imperial Family have shared a longstanding and close relationship that has spanned multiple generations.
The Dutch Royal Family officially welcomed the monarchs outside the Royal Palace on Dam Square in Amsterdam, followed by a Luncheon inside the Royal Palace.
The Emperor and Empress laid a wreath at the National Monument on Dam Square.
The next heir to the throne of Dutch royalty, Catharina-Amalia Princess of Orange, Princess Beatrix along with her sister Princess Ariane and others joined King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima as they hosted a State Banquet in honour of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam. Both the King and Emperor gave speeches.
The Emperor said his speech in English, “I sincerely hope that our two countries will continue to walk together for peace in the future.”
The imperial couple is staying at Het Oude Loo Castle, a royal residence in Apeldoorn, east of Amsterdam, during their visit.
Both the royals watched the FIFA World Cup match between Japan and the Netherlands on television together on Sunday, with the match ending in a 2-2 draw.
