King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima welcomed Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan to the Dam Square in Amsterdam, commencing a three-day state visit. The imperial couple began their visit Wednesday by laying a wreath at the National Monument, honoring Dutch war victims. This state visit signifies a strengthening of diplomatic ties between the Netherlands and Japan. The day’s events culminated in a state banquet hosted at the Royal Palace on the Dam Square. The visit includes a series of engagements designed to foster cultural exchange and reinforce the relationship between the two nations. This is a reciprocal visit following previous engagements between the royal families.