Society

Suga: Tokyo Games can be held safely

May 19 (NHK) - Japan's prime minister says he believes that the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics can be held in a safe manner by implementing thorough anti-virus measures.

Suga Yoshihide made the remarks at an Upper House plenary session on Wednesday.

He said the top priority at present is to contain the spread of infection and protect the lives and health of the people.

He added that by having athletes and people involved in the Games take full anti-virus measures, they will be able to take part in the events with peace of mind.

Suga noted that the Japanese government has succeeded in securing free provision of vaccines from US drug company Pfizer to athletes taking part in the Games.

He said officials will consider strict measures, such as making sure locals don't meet with Games participants.

The prime minister stressed that his government will push ahead with preparations to host the Games safely.

The Olympics are scheduled to open in late July and the Paralympics in late August. They were postponed for one year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

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