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Surgery forces Iwata to miss Nintendo AGM

Executive recovering well and is back working through email

Satoru Iwata has issued a statement explaining his absence from the upcoming Nintendo AGM for shareholders, explaining that he is still in recovery from the minor surgery which also kept him away from E3.

The executive had a small growth removed from a bile duct earlier this month, but is already well on the road to fitness, having already returned to his duties via email.

"Recently, as the result of one of my routine physical examinations, an issue was detected," the Nintendo President writes. "Following a more detailed examination, a growth was found in my bile duct.

"In general, it is said that a bile duct growth can be difficult-to-treat, partly because of the difficulty of detecting it early. In my case, luckily, it was detected very early and I had no symptoms.

"I was counseled that removal at an early stage would be the desirable medical option. Therefore I had surgery last week, and I came through it well, as predicted.

"I have already resumed my business by email and by other means, but it is anticipated that a little more time is needed for me to return to my regular work schedule.

"As a result, I have no choice but to miss the company's very important activity, the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, to be held this month. As the president of the company, I regret that I cannot attend the meeting. However, I understand that I have to prioritize my medical treatment and to recover as soon as possible so that I will again be able to do my best to help the company to grow. I hope that you understand."

GamesIndustry International wishes him all the best for a speedy recovery.