TOKYO: Japanese Empress Masako, who turned 57 on Wednesday, prayed for an end to the novel coronavirus crisis.

In a written comment released by the Imperial Household Agency, the Empress reflected on the past year as “terribly heart-wrenching” due to the coronavirus epidemic.

“I pray from my heart that we all can reach out to those in difficulties and together overcome this trial,” she said.

Empress Masako expressed gratitude for medical workers’ selfless efforts in dealing with the epidemic. She added that she prays for the day in which everyone can live with peace of mind, showing concern about social issues resulting from the epidemic such as economic hardships, discrimination against infected people and worsening child abuse.

The Empress expressed regrets over her limited opportunities to interact with the public.

She and Emperor Naruhito were briefed on the novel coronavirus crisis by experts 16 times at their residence in the Akasaka Estate in Tokyo.

Regarding online inspections of medical and other facilities the couple started in November, Empress Masako said she hopes to utilize such opportunities further.

The statement also touched on her feeling of relief after the completion of Crown Prince Akishino’s “Rikkoshi no Rei” ceremonies, which last month wrapped up a series of Emperor Naruhito’s enthronement-related rituals.

The Empress also commented on the traditional silkworm culture, which she practiced for the first time this year after it was passed down from Empress Emerita Michiko.

“I was deeply moved when beautiful raw silk was spun from the cocoon,” the Empress said.

On her daughter, Princess Aiko, who turns 20 next year, the Empress said, “I hope she will spend the last year of her teenage life well.”

The agency’s medical team also released a statement, saying that the Empress is still in the process of recovery from an adjustment order and that her health has ups and downs.

There will be no celebratory event in light of the coronavirus crisis.

JIJI Press