Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Elke Büdenbender travelled to Tokyo for an official visit from 20 to 23 October. While there, they attended the Ceremony of the Enthronement of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan.
During his visit, the President also held political talks with Prime Minister Shinzō Abe and other heads of state and government. Over luncheon, he debated with former Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida and Japanese experts on the concept of Society 5.0, and learned about the challenges of an ageing society in Japan in further discussions.
A visit to the Mori Art Museum Tokyo for the exhibition The Soul Trembles
by Japanese artist Shiota Chiharu, who lives in Berlin, was also on the programme.
Overview of the programme:
Sunday, 20 October 2019
- Flight to Tokyo
Monday, 21 October 2019
- Arrival in Tokyo
- Reception at the German Ambassador’s residence
Tuesday, 22 October 2019
- Discussion on the challenges of an ageing society
- Attendance at the Ceremony of the Enthronement of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan
- Opportunity for a press statement
- Attendance at the court banquet hosted by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan
Wednesday, 23 October 2019
- Talks with former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida and other Japanese participants on the concept of Society 5.0
- Visit to the exhibition
The Soul Trembles
at the Mori Art Museum - Talks with Shinzō Abe, Prime Minister of Japan
- Visit to Hamarikyu Gardens
- Return flight to Berlin