Ulaanbaatar: Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako arrived in Mongolia for a weeklong visit, where they are scheduled to honor thousands of Japanese prisoners held in the country after World War II.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Mongolian presidency released a statement confirming the arrival of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako at Chinggis Khaan International Airport near Ulaanbaatar. The imperial couple was greeted by officials, including Foreign Minister Battsetseg Batmunkh. The visit, which is at the invitation of President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, is scheduled to conclude on June 13. Discussions between the leaders will focus on strengthening bilateral ties.

The statement also mentioned that Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako will be guests of honor at the opening ceremony of the Naadam Festival. This traditional Mongolian festival highlights horseracing, wrestling, and archery. The visit is significant as it marks Emperor Naruhito's first trip to Mongolia since ascending the throne in 2019. His last visit to the country was in 2007 when he was the crown prince, commemorating the 35th anniversary of Japanese-Mongolian relations.

Emperor Naruhito, in a press conference on Wednesday, announced plans to lay flowers at a memorial dedicated to Japanese prisoners captured by the Soviet Union and sent to Mongolia after World War II. This gesture underscores the historical significance of his visit and the enduring ties between Japan and Mongolia.