Princess Kako attended a Girl Scouts event in Tokyo on October 6 and gave words of encouragement to young women taking part in activities to address social issues.

The event was held to commemorate International Day of the Girl Child.

The Girl Scouts of Japan awarded groups that conduct outstanding activities aimed at improving society.

At the outset of her speech, the second daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito of Akishino offered prayers for victims of heavy rain in the Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa Prefecture of central Japan.

S/ Princess Kako / I hope for the deepening of understanding toward backgrounds and situations that are different from one's own. I think that this kind of understanding will provide the power to advance gender equality and other initiatives aimed toward a better society.

After the ceremony, Kako had a chat with award recipients.

She told them that their activities are meaningful and will greatly help other people.