Belgian royals welcome Japan's emperor on state visit

Japanese Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako arrived in Belgium on Tuesday for a state visit, marked by a formal welcome ceremony at the Royal Palace of Brussels. Belgium's King Philippe and Queen Mathilde greeted the imperial couple with full military honors, including a red carpet and an inspection of the honor guard. The two royal families posed for photographs before entering the palace.

Hundreds of onlookers gathered outside the palace, many waving Japanese flags to catch a glimpse of the proceedings. The visit underscores the enduring ties between Japan and Belgium, which have maintained diplomatic relations since 1866, when members of the two royal families first exchanged visits.