[Provisional Translation]

It is with great sorrow that I have learned of the passing of His Imperial Highness Prince Mikasa.

His Imperial Highness was born as the fourth son of Emperor Taisho, and for many years from the Showa era onward he assisted both his elder brother Emperor Showa and later His Majesty the Emperor, contributing to the peace of the nation and the welfare of the people. As a member of the Imperial Family, His Imperial Highness fulfilled an important role in a broad range of fields, particularly in the promotion of international goodwill, sports, recreation, art, culture, medical care, and welfare. His Imperial Highness always interacted warmly with the people of Japan, offering his encouragement to people involved in various commemorative ceremonies and events he attended.

His Imperial Highness was also a distinguished researcher of ancient oriental history.

In his later years, His Imperial Highness spent his days peacefully and in good health and last year celebrated his 100th birthday. The people of Japan were hoping that His Imperial Highness would continue to live for many years to come, and it leaves us in unbearable sorrow that with the passing of His Imperial Highness these hopes could not be realized.

Extending my deepest sympathy to the members of the Imperial Household and other close relatives of His Imperial Highness, together with the people of Japan I would like to express my heartfelt condolences.