Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga gave a message to the United Nations General Assembly on Friday. He stated that Japan is determined to host the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, which were postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Games originally had to take place this summer. The International Olympic Committee and the Japanese government put them off for a year in March.
Mr. Suga became the Prime Minister of Japan this month after Shinzo Abe stepped down because of health issues.
“In the summer of next year, Japan is determined to host the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games as proof that humanity has defeated the pandemic,” Mr. Suga said in a recorded message.
“I will continue to spare no effort in order to welcome you to Games that are safe and secure,” Suga said. This was his debut speech to the United Nations as Japan’s new leader.
Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics on Friday proposed cutting back the number of staff at next year’s Summer Games. They also proposed shortening the opening period for training venues. They are a part of a plan to hold a streamlines event amid the pandemic.
In the video message, Mr. Suga also stated that Japan will ensure equitable access to coronavirus treatment and vaccines for people in developing nations.
“Japan fully supports the development of therapeutics, vaccines and diagnostics. It works towards ensuring fair and equitable access for all, including those in developing countries,” he said.
As part of its steps to help developing countries hit by the pandemic, Japan is offering up to $4.5 billion in emergency loans, Mr. Suga said.