The Royal Family is using its ‘soft power’ to boost the UK economy
EXCLUSIVE: The Japanese State Visit was originally planned for 2020 when Queen Elizabeth II was still alive. It had to be postponed because of COVID-19 with this being the first State Visit to happen in modern times during an election campaign.
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The Japanese State Visit is going ahead as planned, despite the General Election, which suggests just how important the royal tour is, says one historian.
Emperor Naruhito and his wife Empress Masako will take part in a three-day tour, from June 25 through June 27, hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla.
The visit was originally planned for 2020 but was postponed because of the pandemic.
This will be the first State Visit in modern times to take place during an election campaign, according to the BBC.
Pauline Maclaran, Professor of Marketing & Consumer Research Royal Holloway University of London, said: “These State Visits are a good example of how the royals use their ‘soft’ power to enhance Britain’s status on the global stage and to help cement strong commercial bonds with international partners.”
She added: “The current Japanese state visit, as well as those hosted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1971 and 1998, remind us of the importance of Japan to the UK economy.”
“Japan is the UK’s 5th largest investor with over £92 billion invested here.”
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Charles has entrusted Prince William with the responsibility of greeting the Emperor and Empress at their hotel and escorting their royal guests to Horse Guards Parade, where Their Majesties will receive a ceremonial welcome.
Professor Maclaran said: “This is certainly a major role for William in supporting the King and Queen during this state visit and reflects the increasing importance of the prince to the future of the monarchy.”
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The official royal website provides a rundown of what to expect, Day One will see a Royal Salute, a procession along The Mall to Buckingham Palace and a State Banquet.
From there, on Day Two and Day Three, the Emperor and Empress will spend time with the British Royal Family and also make some solo visits like going to St James’s Chapel, Windsor, to lay a wreath for Queen Elizabeth II.
