(Provisional Translation)

Statement by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi
On the Birth Her Imperial Highness the Princess

1 December 2001
Japanese

I would like to join together with the people of Japan in expressing my heartfelt joy on the birth of Her Imperial Highness the Princess today.

I can only imagine the joy of Their Imperial Highnesses The Crown Prince and Crown Princess, and I am certain that Their Majesties The Emperor and Empress must also be overwhelmed with happiness.

The birth of Her Imperial Highness the Princess symbolizes the continued prosperity of the Imperial Family and the entire nation is indeed encompassed with joy to greet this wonderful day.

I would like to express my sincere prayers for the healthy growth of Her Imperial Highness the Princess and for the further good fortune of the Imperial Family.