Press Conference by His Imperial Highness The Crown Prince on the Occasion of His Birthday
15 February 2001
Question 3
As you look back on your almost eight years of married life to Her Imperial Highness the Crown Princess, how would you like to develop your relationship in the future?
Answer 3
Since we were married, Masako has done a wonderful job in her role as Crown Princess, and I am truly grateful for that. I believe that married life represents an important partnership. It is important to take mutual pleasure in times of joy and to worry and think together in times of difficulty. It is also thanks to Masako that I have come to learn of things I had not previously noticed, and had my views of and interest in different things broadened since our marriage. I believe it is also important that in married life a couple is able to share some common interest. While sharing our interests and concerns together, I would like to further deepen our bonds as a couple in the future.