Emperor Naruhito expressed his wish on Thursday for a peaceful year for people affected by disasters, including a powerful earthquake that struck central Japan's Noto Peninsula a year ago.
"I'm concerned about the suffering of many people who are still living a difficult life," the Emperor said in his New Year's address to a crowd of people gathered at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
"I know that there will be many difficulties, but I hope that this year will be a peaceful and good year for everyone," he said.
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