Japanese Emperor Akihoto, 82, commented in a rare television appearance that he will have trouble fulfilling his duties, due to his age.
When I consider my age of over 80, as well as my gradually deteriorating physical condition despite being luckily healthy at this moment, I am concerned about being able to fulfill by duties as a symbol with the utmost efforts, as I have done so far," he told the nation in a 10 minute address.
Japanese public news reported last month that the emperor requested to retire from his position several years ago, which has never happened in Japan before. Akihoto had heart surgery, and was suffering from cancer.