Crown Prince Naruhito, prior to his 49th birthday Feb. 23, vowed to do his best to lighten the burden of official duties on his ailing 75-year-old father.

Crown Prince Naruhito KYODO PHOTO

At a news conference Feb. 20 in his Tokyo residence, the Crown Prince emphasized the importance of people around EmperorAkihito, including himself, thoroughly contemplating the issue of alleviating his burden while respecting his wish to fulfill his duties.

"I will do whatever it takes to help improve the situation," the Crown Prince said.