Japan's Crown Prince Naruhito celebrates 49th birthday

Feb 23, 2009, 5:26 GMT

   Tokyo - Japanese Crown Prince Naruhito celebrated his 49th birthday Monday, saying he and his wife Crown Princess Masako would do all they could to help his father, Emperor Akihito, with his royal duties.

   Celebrating his birthday at his Tokyo palace, the prince expressed concern over his 75-year-old father, who recently suffered from stress-induced illnesses.

   Speaking at a press conference, the prince declined to comment on the royal succession issue, which had drawn heated discussion before his younger brother Akishinomiya had a son, Hisahito, in 2006.

   Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako have an 8-year-old daughter, Aiko, but Japanese law does not recognize female succession to the world's longest-lasting monarchy.

   Speaking about his wife, the crown prince said he was happy to see her returning to some of her official duties despite her weakened condition. She appeared in public to wish New Year's greetings to the Japanese people this year along with other royal family members.

   Crown Princess Masako, 45, was diagnosed with a stress-induced illness and has been under medical treatment for more than five years.

   Prince Naruhito said his wife recognizes the importance of these duties was making utmost effort to perform them.

   But he said a doctor has warned her not to try too hard because there is a chance she may suffer a relapse.