The Latest: Japan PM Abe congratulates Naruhito

TOKYO (AP) — The Latest on Emperor Naruhito's succession (all times local):

1:30 p.m.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has congratulated Emperor Naruhito and pledged his respect to him on the day he ascended to the Chrysanthemum Throne.

The 59-year-old Naruhito succeeded his father, who is now known as Emperor Emeritus Akihito after his abdication on Tuesday.

Abe on Wednesday pledged to create a "bright future" during the new era that is peaceful and full of hope.

Naruhito also received messages from President Donald Trump and China's President Xi Jinping.

Trump's message said America and Japan will renew the bonds of friendship in the new era. The official Xinhua news agency reported Xi said China and Japan should work together to promote peace and development and bilateral ties.

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11:30 a.m.

Emperor Naruhito has vowed to fulfill his duty as a symbol of state and people as defined under Japan's Constitution in his first address.

Naruhito announced his succession to the Chrysanthemum Throne in the address Wednesday a day after his father abdicated.

He said he will keep in mind his father's devotion to peace and stay close to the people. Naruhito also said he feels solemn as thinks of the heavy weight of his responsibility.

Akihito abdicated Tuesday after reigning for three decades. He is now known as emperor emeritus.

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10:30 a.m.

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito has inherited the Imperial regalia of sword and jewel and seals as proof of succession in his first official duty as emperor.

Naruhito succeeded the Chrysanthemum Throne after his father's abdication Tuesday.

Naruhito is to make his first address later in Wednesday's ceremony.

His wife, Empress Masako, a Harvard-educated former diplomat, and their daughter...