(CNN) Beloved Japanese Emperor Akihito has released his final annual birthday statement before he abdicates the throne in April -- the first Japanese monarch to do so in 200 years. It gives me deep comfort that the Heisei Era is coming to an end, free of war in Japan." "I hope that the Japanese people will be able to warmly welcome as members of our society those who come to Japan to work here," he said. On the disasters, he said, "the catastrophic destruction caused by the force of nature was beyond my imagination." Known for his close relationship with his wife, who was the first commoner to marry into the royal family, the Emperor thanked the Empress for taking up the public role.

Source: CNN December 22, 2018 20:15 UTC