emperor akihito alluded to his wish to abdicate. we'll play the whole message for you now. >>> nhk world's news director is joining us with insight. what did you take away from the empb remember's address? >> well, the emperor is implying he wishes to hand down the throne. he said when he considers that his physical condition is gradually declining, he worries that it may become difficult to carry out his duties as the symbol of the state. and that his honest wish is that the duty can continue steadily without a break. he also commented on the possibility of the remaining in his position by reducing his duties or asking other people to stand in for him. but he indicated that isn't something he wants. >> so what stood out for you the most? >> well, i think it's clear the emperor highly values his duties as the symbol of the state. he said he's carried them out with his whole being, and i got the impression he strongly believes the duties should always be carried out that way. he implied if he becomes unable to carry them out sufficie

emperor akihito alluded to his wish to abdicate. he spoke for around ten minutes. >> he noted that considering the gradual decline in his physical condition, he's worried it may become difficult for him to carry out his duties as the symbol of the state. >> he also talked about what he sees the emperor's duties as being. >> the emperor also expressed the view that it is not possible to continue reducing the duties, and he said he's concerned that, like in the past, when an emperor is ill and his condition becomes serious, society comes to a standstill and people's lives are affected. >> he ended by saying he sincerely hopes for the people's understanding. people around the country have been giving their reactions to the emperor's message. >> translator: the emperor has reached an advanced age, so i think it's good to hand over the throne to a successor while he's still healthy. >> i've been listening to the emperor since he was the crown prince. i believe he genuinely cares about the people. >> translator: i think the emperor though