TOKYO – World leaders offered congratulations to Japan’s new Emperor Naruhito on Wednesday, expressing hopes for further development of bilateral relations.

U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump sent their “profound congratulations” to the Japanese emperor and Empress Masako, after he ascended the throne.

“We will renew the strong bonds of friendship between our two countries,” Trump said in a statement, referring to Japan’s new imperial era Reiwa, which the enthronement ushered in.

The Trumps are set to be the first state guests welcomed by the 59-year-old emperor, when they visit Japan May 25-28.

From neighboring countries, South Korean President Moon Jae In said in a message of celebration that he expects Emperor Naruhito to continue to walk toward peace as his father former Emperor Akihito did.

He also asked the new emperor to pay particular attention to developing bilateral ties, which have been strained by Japan’s wartime past.

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory telegram in which he said both countries “have a long history of friendly exchanges.”

“The two sides should work together to promote peaceful development and create a bright future for bilateral relations,” Xi said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a telegram he wished for the emperor’s “good health” and “successful years-long (reign)” for Japan and its citizens.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who met with then-Crown Prince Naruhito in Germany in 2011 and in Japan earlier this year, said she would be “pleased” to welcome him again to her country.