-Lesson 6 / English in Today's World-
[Japan's Government Officially Sets Abdication Date]
Now for an update on what will be a historic moment for Japan, one that has not happened in two centuries. The government has officially set the date for Emperor Akihito's abdication.
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's Cabinet has approved April 30, 2019, for the occasion. Crown Prince Naruhito's accession is set for May 1.
The ministers approved the abdication date on Friday morning. It comes after the Imperial House Council reached a consensus on the dates earlier this month.
When Emperor Akihito steps down, it will end the current "Heisei" era, which began when he ascended the throne. The government will now start the process to decide the name for the new era.
In a rare address last year, the Emperor cited concern that his advanced age could make it difficult to carry out his duties. He was 82 at the time. His message was widely interpreted as a wish to step down. But since there was no legal framework for doing so, the Diet enacted special legislation. (2017/12/08, NHK World)
◆見出し[Japan's government officially sets abdication date]
=Japan's government officially set the abdication date (on Friday).
