Emperor tells Canada of his regret for war

OTTAWA (Kyodo) Emperor Akihito expressed sorrow Monday evening for the damage World War II caused to Japanese-Canadian relations during a speech at a banquet in Ottawa hosted by the governor general of Canada.

"Sadly, the relationship between the two countries was ruined by World War II and my heart goes out to the people who suffered hardships created by the battles," the Emperor said while expressing his gratitude to people who have dedicated themselves to mending those ties.

Governor General Michaelle Jean, the representative of head of state Queen Elizabeth II, and her husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, welcomed the Emperor and his wife, Empress Michiko, at Rideau Hall.

They arrived at the official residence by carriage and were greeted by more than 100 Canadians of Japanese ancestry.

They participated in a guard of honor ceremony in the square in front of the main entrance to Rideau Hall, complete with a gun salute.

"It's my sincere hope that our visit this time will contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding and friendly relations between your country and our country, which celebrate the 80th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties," the Emperor said.