1 of 3 | (L-R) Japan's Crown Princess Masako, Crown Prince Naruhito, Emperor Akihito, Empress Michiko, Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko wave to well-wishers during his Majesty's 79th birthday greeting at the East Plaza, Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan, on December 23, 2012. UPI/Keizo Mori |
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"I expressed my wish to attend the ceremony ... so the surgery was carried out to meet this schedule," the emperor told reporters at pre-birthday news conference.
In a public address at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Akihito told the nation he was feeling fine and carrying out his official duties.
He also sent his best wishes to everyone who was affected by the disaster. "Our hearts will be with the afflicted people and I wish you all happiness," he said.