'Wonderful' state visit... fit for an emperor

KING Charles lauded the "close friendship" between Japan and Britain as he welcomed the country's Emperor and Empress for their three-day state visit.

- Emily Ferguson

At a lavish state banquet last night, Charles 75, spoke fondly of the nations' shared values, commitment to the climate crisis and love of tea.

He even wished a happy 50th birthday to Hello Kitty, the fictional character created by Yuko Shimizu.

In Japanese, Charles told Emperor Naruhito, 64, and Empress Masako, 60: "Welcome back to Britain!"

The King noted the core of their partnership was "a close friendship" and told how Japan and Britain had forged closer ties through innovation, business, science and security.

He related memories of going to the opera and fly fishing with Naruhito, quipping: "I am only sorry to report that I haven't had any better luck with more recent attempts at fishing...

"The Pokemon phrase 'Gotta catch 'em all" may resonate with my grandchildren, but for me it is, perhaps, aspirational." The King then toasted the couple and the Japanese people, before saying "kan-pai" - cheers in Japanese.