DHAKA: Japan’s imperial couple arrived in India on Saturday on their first ever official visit, billed by New Delhi as a symbol of goodwill towards Asia’s biggest democracy.

Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko will meet the Indian premier and other dignitaries during their six-day visit, the first by any Japanese emperor to India.

The royal couple, who had visited India in early 1960s as crown prince and princess, were received by India prime minister Manmohan Singh on the airport tarmac in New Delhi.

The Indian foreign ministry said the government was according ‘utmost importance’ to the visit to ensure the royal couple have a memorable trip, reports The Straits Times.

BDST: 1920 HRS, NOV 30, 2013