Princess Aiko to visit Singapore

Princess Aiko is preparing for a major trip abroad next month, with her second official visit announced. 

At the invitation of President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Princess Aiko (24) will visit the Republic of Singapore from 17-21 November, the Imperial Household Agency confirmed. This will be Princess Aiko’s second official visit, following her visit to Laos last year.

This year, Japan and Singapore will mark the 60th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations. Previously, Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko visited Singapore in 2006, marking the 40th anniversary.

According to the IHA, the cabinet approved earlier today that the Princess will make the five-day visit starting 17 November. Princess Aiko, the daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, will depart from Haneda Airport on a commercial flight on the morning of 17 November. The Princess is expected to arrive at Singapore’s Changi Airport in the afternoon.

While in Singapore, Princess Aiko is scheduled to pay a courtesy call on President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and attend a dinner hosted by the President. The Princess will also visit various facilities and institutions and hold discussions with several people and groups with ties to Japan. The Princess will depart Singapore on the morning of 21 November and is expected to return to Japan that afternoon.