Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away at 96 on Thursday, had over the years formed a close friendship with members of Japan's Imperial family. Her friendship with the Emperor Emeritus, 88, in particular spanned nearly 70 years, during which they both dealt with the scars that British and Japanese people bore from World War II. The strong bond between the two monarchs provided a needed push toward the people of the two countries becoming true friends.
According to the Imperial Household Agency, the Emperor Emeritus and Empress Emerita were deeply saddened by the news of the queen's death. They expressed their gratitude for her friendship over the years and prayed for the repose of her soul.
