Prime Minister Abe held a telephone conversation with International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Bach at the Prime Minister’s Residence for approximately 45 minutes from 8:00 p.m. on March 24, which was attended by Japan Olympic Committee (JOC) President Mori and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Tokyo Governor Koike.
Following the phone conversation, Prime Minister Abe told reporters: “I confirmed with Bach first that there is no cancellation of the Tokyo Games.”
In addition, Prime Minister Abe said, “As a host nation and Japan, it takes almost a year to enable athletes around the world to play in the best conditions based on the current situation and to have a safe and secure tournament for the public. He suggested considering the postponement, and Bach replied “I agree 100%”.
“I have agreed that the Tokyo Games will be held at least by the summer of 2021,” he said.
Asked why the delay was proposed for one year, Prime Minister Abe said, “First of all, given the current spread of infectious diseases, it is difficult to continue this year. I want to go.”
“In the future, we agreed to work closely with President Bach to host the Tokyo Games in full as proof that humanity has overcome the new coronavirus infection. I want to do it.”