High-level delegations from Asia-Pacific nations and international organizations have gathered in Japan to discuss water-related issues.

The occasion is the fourth Asia-Pacific Water Summit that opened in the southwestern city of Kumamoto on Saturday.

Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako participated in the opening ceremony online.

The Emperor gave an address in English. He said, "I sincerely hope that this fourth Asia-Pacific Water Summit will bear fruitful results and become a momentous step towards meeting water challenges in the Asia-Pacific region and around the world, and thereby will bring about peace and happiness for all human beings."

Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio delivered a keynote speech at a summit-level session. He said water-related disasters have been occurring frequently around the world in recent years. He noted that the coronavirus pandemic has brought renewed awareness of the importance of clean water.

He added that improving sanitation is extremely important in eradicating poverty.

Kishida announced an initiative to help the Asia-Pacific region address water-related issues.

He promised about 500 billion yen, or nearly 4 billion dollars, in aid to the region over the next five years.

The initiative will include measures against climate change, such as improving the hydraulic control capacity of dams and increasing hydropower energy. It also aims to expand facilities for water supply.

Kishida then spoke about Ukraine. He said the international community is at a crucial point to end Russia's inhumane invasion and protect peace and order. He said the international community should speak out as one by declaring that any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force will not be tolerated.

The delegates adopted the Kumamoto Declaration committed to tackling water-related challenges.

The water summit will run through Sunday.