President of the U.S, Donald Trump, and Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe. (Image via Bangkok Post)

Abe tells Trump Olympics 2020 goes as planned

On Friday, the Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, held a phone talk with the President of the United States (U.S), Donald Trump. During the phone call, Abe reasserted that the 2020 Olympics will proceed as plan despite the ongoing outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Currently, COVID-19 has infected mover 120,000 people in 118 countries and territories, leading to recessions.

Abe and Trump then discussed the effort of Japan and the U.S to battle the pneumonia-related virus. From school closure to large event cancelations. Then, both agreed to cooperate in containing the virus from breaking even further. Both state leaders also discussed North Korea.

After the 50-minute talks, Trump then tweeted a positive remark for Japan and Abe.

The talks, initiated by Trump, came since the world is doubting Japan’s eligibility in hosting the oldest sports event in the world which will be held in four months. Especially, since the World Health Organization (WHO) has characterized the disease as a “pandemic”, the world’s doubt grew even more toward Japan.

Speaking at a press conference, the Chief Cabinet Secretary also Abe’s right-hand man, Yoshihide Suga, said that the Japanese government remains sure to proceed with the preparations for the 2020 Olympics. Quoting Abe’s talks with Trump, the U.S appreciates Japan’s valiant effort in battling the COVID-19.

Japan’s Olympic Minister, Seiko Hashimoto, said that neither is the International Olympic Committee (IOC) nor Tokyo Olympics organizing committee considering postponing or canceling the Olympics. Regarding the downsizing or shutting spectators, these options have not been discussed yet. Governor of Tokyo, Yuriko Koike, said a similar thing.

IOC will take heed of the WHO’s advice on whether they should postpone or cancel the Summer Olympics.

Source: https://bit.ly/3cTZ9LY