Speech at Japan Society, London, October 30, 2015
October 30, 2015
Governor Masuzoe spoke in London about his hopes for Tokyo ahead of the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. In an address to members of the Japan Society, he lauded the recent establishment of official friendship city relations between Tokyo and London.
“This friendship city relationship covers six main areas of cooperation: urban planning, environment, cultural exchange, transportation, tourism, and large-scale sports events... In the last of those areas – large-scale sports events – we can learn a lot from London 2012. It is clear to me that, as we prepare for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, we need to have a clear vision for Tokyo.”
The first of two key aspects of Governor Masuzoe’s vision includes building the legacy of Tokyo 2020 in both city culture and infrastructure. “We will work to ensure that Tokyo is a barrier-free city, accessible to all, and welcoming to all, irrespective of any physical and mental challenges.” The governor also outlined his plans to convert 2020 athletic venues into public spaces after the conclusion of the Olympics and Paralympics.
With sustainability as another pillar of his strategy, Governor Masuzoe reaffirmed his commitment to developing a CO2-free hydrogen society, increasing the use of renewable energies, and reducing Tokyo’s overall energy consumption by 20% before 2020.
The second key aspect of the governor’s vision centers on international business. “Tokyo is at the center of the national government’s economic growth strategy, Abenomics, and we are driving efforts to transform Tokyo into a global financial center.”
The governor spoke on many of the city’s economic indicatives, including an increased focus on public-private partnerships, Tokyo’s new One-Stop Business Establishment Center, and deregulation so that Tokyo can shine as an international business hub.
After his speech, the Governor answered questions from the audience.
