Tokyo: U.S. first lady Michelle Obama is touring Asia to highlight cooperation on helping girls finish their educations. The five-day trip that began in Tokyo on Wednesday is Mrs. Obama's first visit to Japan.
In Tokyo she plans to announce, along with Japanese first lady Akie Abe, a new partnership supporting girls' education. Mrs. Obama will also meet with Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko and visit the ancient capital, Kyoto, before traveling to Cambodia.
Japan plans to cooperate with the "Let Girls Learn" initiative announced by President Barack Obama and his wife. The community-based aid program is meant to help get 62 million girls back into school. White House staff say the Peace Corps-run program also reflects a U.S. commitment to be more involved in the Asia-Pacific region.
