Although the COVID-19 pandemic is still spreading around the world and there are many rumors to the contrary, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga once again insisted that his country is committed to hosting the Olympics this summer in Tokyo.
Suga, speaking remotely at the World Economic Forum on Friday, said that the Games will move forward in July.
“We are hosting the Olympics and Paralympics this summer,” said Suga, via The Associated Press. “I am determined to carry out the games as proof of human victory against the pandemic, a symbol of global solidarity and to give hope and courage around the world.”
Suga: ‘We must learn lessons from this pandemic’
The Olympics were already postponed from last summer due to the coronavirus pandemic, and are scheduled to start in July.
These games have apparently been in constant doubt, and it is not yet clear how they will move forward specifically. Games can end up being played without fans, in a bubble like the NBA and more.
Reports earlier this month suggested that the games could be canceled altogether, due to a recent spike in cases in Japan and the overwhelming majority of Japanese citizens who do not think the Olympics should be held there this summer.
Although the International Olympic Committee vehemently denies these reports, a Florida lawmaker has even pressured the IOC to transfer the games to his state – something that is not viable for several reasons.
While much remains to be discovered before July, Suga’s goal is to host an “safe and secure” Olympics – and he knows that keeping the coronavirus in check in Japan is the first step. He also pledged to expand his $ 130 million contribution to help developing countries obtain vaccines and called for extensive research by the World Health Organization.
“We must learn the lessons of this pandemic and be prepared for future crises,” said Suga, through the Associated Press. “[To do so], a scientific investigation by WHO should be carried out in a firm and transparent manner. “
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