Emperor Akihito Consoles His People in Television Address

Emperor Akihito of Japan comforted his people in a rare televised address on Wednesday. In his speech, he told the country not to "abandon hope" despite the devastation caused by last Friday’s earthquake and tsunami. The emperor also expressed his sorrow and conveyed sympathy for the deaths and damages caused by the catastrophic event.

Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko are awaiting confirmation from officials to go visit the affected areas.