President Mary McAleese departed this morning for the Far East as part of this year's St Patrick's Day celebrations.
She is accompanied by husband Martin, Minister of State at the Department of Education Síle de Valera, and senior officials.
A trade mission from Ireland will also form part of the delegation travelling to the Far East.
During her official visit to Japan the President will meet Emperor Akihito on St Patrick's Day. She will also address Tokyo University on the theme of "Ireland and Japan at the beginning of the New Millennium".
Next Monday Mrs McAleese will make a state visit to the Republic of Korea where she will meet the president Roh. She is also expected to receive an honorary degree from EHWA Women's University.
The President will also attend a number of Irish community, tourism, business and sporting events in both countries and will return to Dublin on Friday 25th March at 7.45pm.
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