New Delhi, Dec 1 (IANS): Warm sentiments and lively conversation marked the private luncheon hosted by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his wife Gursharan Kaur for visiting Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko at his official residence here Sunday.
The luncheon, hosted at the prime minister's 7, Race Course Road residence, was also attended by Congress president Sonia Gandhi, said Sakutaro Tanino, press secretary to the emperor.
The talks during the strictly private affair stretched 45 minutes beyond the scheduled time - evidence of the close ties between the two countries.
"The whole atmosphere was very, very cordial. They discussed all aspects of their relations and many other things," said Tanino.
In the morning, the imperial couple went for a walk in the Lodhi Gardens and took interest in the plants. They were presented a bouquet by a little girl during their stroll.