Emperor Akihito declared his abdication Tuesday, expressing his appreciation for the support of the Japanese people during the 30-year Heisei Era, in which he worked to console the victims of disasters and commemorate those who perished in World War II."I have performed my duties as the emperor with a deep sense of trust in and respect for the people, and I consider myself most fortunate to have been able to do so," said the 85-year-old emperor, who will become the first Japanese monarch to abdicate in 202 years, in his final speech at the Imperial Palace.The emperor, who will be succeeded …READ FULL ARTICLE
