Empress Michiko, Japan's empress consort and wife of Emperor Akihito, celebrates her 80th birthday. In another milestone in her life, she expressed her hope and aspirations for peace and freedom for conflict as Japan braces for the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II next year.

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In a statement, the empress sympathized with the families who lost their loved ones and suffered terribly during the war.

The empress further highlights the efforts of many to maintain peace and order.

"It is important for all of us today who are enjoying the benefits of peace to continue to make every effort to nip the buds of conflict and suffering both in Japan and abroad, and to always aspire strongly toward peace in the world," she said.

The empress never forgot to mention her husband, for he "has always remained modest and humble" and "has constantly guided me and the children, at times strictly, but always with a generous heart."

"This, I believe, is what has allowed me to come this far," she said as she looks back on the 55 years of her married life and as a member of Japan's Imperial Family.

The empress also aired her sadness over the newspaper article concerning Tsuneo Murayama, who passed away after completing a detailed list of Japanese perished after being detained in Siberia after the war.

"The story reminded me of the long postwar history of each person who experienced war and each person who lost family members in the war," she said.

Born Michiko Shoda in Tokyo in 1934, she was the daughter of Hidesaburo Shoda, president of Nisshin Flour Milling Company. While at a tennis court in Karuizawa, she met then Crown Prince Akihito. They were married in 1959, breaking traditions and making her the first commoner to ever marry into the imperial family. Their marriage was blessed by three children: Crown Prince Naruhito, Prince Akishino, and the former Princess Nori.

TagsEmpress Michiko, Japanese Imperial Family, Emperor Akihito