Xi congratulates Japan's new emperor

Naruhito vows to follow his father Akihito's example and to pursue peace

President Xi Jinping on Wednesday congratulated Japan's new Emperor Naruhito on his succession to the throne.

In a congratulatory message, Xi said China and Japan are close neighbors with a long history of friendship. The two countries should make joint efforts to promote peace and development and work toward a bright future for bilateral ties, he added.