Jakarta, June 20 (AseanAll)  — During a joint press conference with Japan’s Emperor Hironomiya Naruhito, at the Orchid House, Bogor Botanical Garden, West Java province, on June 19, Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo said that the state visit paid by the Emperor and Empress Masako to Indonesia will strengthen the foundation of friendship between Indonesian and Japanese peoples.

“The visit paid by His Majesty Emperor Hironomiya Naruhito and Her Majesty Empress Masako to Indonesia will strengthen the foundation of friendship between our peoples. Such strong foundation is important for development of strategic partnership between our two countries in the future, especially in the economic sector,” the President said.

Jokowi also expressed that he felt truly honored since Indonesia is the first bilateral state visit paid by the Japan’s Emperor.

“It is truly an honor for me and the First Lady to welcome Your Majesty Emperor and Your Majesty Empress of Japan at Bogor Presidential Palace, Indonesia, today,” he said.

The Head of State also emphasized that the friendship between both countries should be flourished amidst various challenges the world faced today.

“Hopefully, Your Majesty Emperor and Your Majesty Empress’ visit to Indonesia makes a good impression for our friendship, Indonesia and Japan. And, may happiness and welfare always be with Your Majesty Emperor and Your Majesty Empress, and the family, as well as the people of Japan,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, Japanese Emperor Naruhito expressed his gratitude for the welcome and hospitality of President Jokowi and First Lady Iriana who had invited him to the Bogor Botanical Garden. Emperor Naruhito hopes that the Indonesia-Japan youth exchange will further strengthen the friendship between the two countries.

"I sincerely hope that the exchange between the young generations of the two countries will further develop the friendship between the two countries," said Emperor Naruhito.