New Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Friday (local time) said that the country is determined to host the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympic Games to prove that humanity has defeated the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking at the 75th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Suga said, “Japan is determined to host the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games as a proof that humanity has defeated the pandemic. I will continue to spare no effort in order to welcome you to the games that are safe and secure.”
The Games were originally scheduled for this summer but were put off for a year in March by the International Olympic Committee and the Japanese government.
Suga became prime minister this month after Shinzo Abe stepped down because of poor health.
Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics on Friday proposed cutting back the number of staff at next year’s Summer Games and shortening the opening period for training venues, as part of a plan to hold a streamlined event amid the pandemic.
The Japanese prime minister also told the UN assembly he is ready to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un without any preconditions to resolve the long-running issue of Japanese citizens abducted by the North decades ago, reiterating the stance of his predecessor.
“Establishing a constructive relationship between Japan and North Korea will not only serve the interests of both sides but will also greatly contribute to regional peace and stability,” he said.
Japanese firms express doubts over Tokyo Olympics:
As per reports, several surveys have shown that a majority of Japanese firms, as well as the public, are doubtful regarding the Tokyo Olympics. While some think that the games should not take place in 2021, others don’t think the mega event is possible.
The poll published by Japanese broadcaster NHK in June noted that two-thirds of sponsors were sceptical about an extension of another year. While facing challenges in keeping sponsors abroad, the Japanese government has been showcasing optimism about the games taking place safely in 2021.
