Emperor Naruhito formally proclaimed enthronement today... as dignitaries from across the globe closely watched.<br />And in his speech, he promised to fulfill his role according to Japan's constitution.<br />But the constitution is something his Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, has long sought to change.<br />Our Eum Ji-young has more.<br />Before some 2,000 foreign dignitaries around the world, including the UK's Prince Charles and Japanese officials, the 59-year-old emperor's ascension was formalized at the Imperial Palace... where he was accompanied by Empress Masako.<br />Dressed in a dark orange robe worn only by emperors on special occations, he took his seat on the so-called Chrysanthemum Throne to cheers from his courtiers and guests.<br />"I will always wish for the welfare of this country and for world peace. I will approach the people while acting according to Japan's constitution and will fulfill my duties as the symbol of the country."<br />The Emperor's remarks could be contrasted with those of Prime Minsiter Shinzo Abe, who is pushing to amend Japan's constitution, which was drafted by the U.S. after World War Two.<br />He has long said the constitution should state clearly the role of the Self-Defence Forces, which are a de facto military... despite the constitution's ban on Japan having such a force.<br />At the ceremony, Abe delievered a congratulatory speech on behalf of the nation and then shouted "banzai" which in Japanese means "long live the Emperor."<br />Eum Ji-young Arirang News<br />
