Japanese Prince Hisahito, who could one day become emperor if the country's succession laws remain unchanged, held his first press conference on Monday, stating that he would strive to fulfill his royal duties.
He is second in line to the throne after his father, Crown Prince Akishino, the younger brother of emperor Naruhito. Naruhito's daughter, 23-year-old Aiko, is ineligible, as Japanese law stipulates that only male members of the royal family can ascend the throne, Reuters reports.
Hisahito, who turned 18 last year, plans to begin his studies next month at the University of Tsukuba, north of Tokyo, specializing in biology.
"Mindful that I am now an adult member of the royal family, I intend to fulfill my duties seriously and carefully, while taking advice from those around me," Hisahito said.
Dressed in a dark suit and tie, he appeared slightly tense at first but began to smile as the press conference progressed.
Hisahito expressed concern about climate change and shared that his hobby is growing vegetables and rice.
"Sometimes, tomatoes are bitten by bugs, and sparrows eat the rice. But I feel delighted when I manage to harvest vegetables and rice and enjoy them with my family," he said.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
