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Statement by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi on Their Majesties' Visit to European Countries December 10, 2004

I am pleased to announce that Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress will pay a state visit to the Kingdom of Norway. Along with Norway, Their Majesties will also visit Ireland. Japan has long enjoyed friendly relations with these countries. Especially, the Royal Family of Norway has a close relationship with the Imperial Family over a long period of time. In 2001, Their Majesties the King and Queen of Norway paid a visit to Japan as State Guests, and an invitation has long been extended to Their Majesties to visit the country. Also, next year marks the 100th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between the two countries. Invitations have also been extended from Ireland to Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress to visit the country. President Robinson extended an invitation at the time of her state visit to Japan in 1995. I am confident that the visit will further strengthen Japan's existing friendly relations with these countries. I would thus like to join the Japanese people in expressing my best wishes for the visit. I would like to express my sincere hope for Their Majesties' pleasant journey and safe return home.