Policy Speech by the Governor of Tokyo, Koike Yuriko, at the Third Regular Session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly, 2022

In opening the third regular session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly in 2022, I wish to relate my basic stance on future metropolitan administration.

Tokyo Honorable Citizens Miyake Issey, Mori Hanae, and Sasamoto Tsuneko passed away on August 5, 11, and 15, respectively. Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly member Nishiyama Masaru passed away on August 18. I would like to extend my deep condolences to their families. May they rest in peace.

Assembly member Miyake Shigeki has been distinguished and awarded for his long years of service. I would like to express my deepest respect for his 25 years of dedication to the development of the metropolitan government, and my sincere congratulations.

1. Foreword

Prayers for former Prime Minister Abe

The state funeral for former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo will be held next week. It is impermissible that this exceptional politician, deeply respected around the world, was killed by a bullet in the midst of an election, the very foundation of democracy. We need to let the world know that our country will never yield to terrorism. I would like to again express my deep condolences and sincere sympathies to his family.

Deepening intercity collaboration is the fast path to a sustainable future

This peaceful and prosperous society, which was built through the untiring efforts of our forerunners, must be passed on to the next generations. This is the responsibility of all of us living today.

But when we look around the world, we see record droughts on one hand, and on the other, unprecedented floods. It could be said that this extreme situation is a warning sent to human society regarding our inability to stop global warming. Furthermore, the situation in Ukraine, which shows no sign of ending, has led to a global competition for resources, forcing progress toward zero carbon to stall.

Global challenges, centering on climate change, have no borders. That is why it is indispensable to have a bird’s eye view of the world and for the international community to deepen solidarity in order to pursue sustainability. My recent visits to Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and New York convinced me that bringing together our wisdom and experience to confront common crises is the shortcut to a sustainable future. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has taken the initiative to establish a new international network, G-NETS, and plans to invite the leaders of the world's major cities to Tokyo in February next year. At this time of international tension, it is imperative for cities to deepen their cooperation and fully demonstrate that power.

Open the way to sustainable cities through the concept of innovation

As Japan has always been dependent on foreign countries for many of its resources, we have always been swayed by trends in the international community. If our footing continues to be unsteady, we will be forced to say that an uncertain future awaits us. In addition, we are also heavily burdened by long-standing issues such as digitalization, in which we lag behind the rest of the world, the gender gap, and measures for a graying society, which is becoming an increasingly serious matter. Action taken by Japan’s capital, Tokyo, where the effects of these issues are most acutely manifested, is key to overcoming the current situation.

Innovation will bring down the walls obstructing us, and generate new value. When innovative technologies and ideas born from a diversity of players are combined, Tokyo’s capacity to solve challenges will be significantly boosted. This concept of innovation will be boldly incorporated in the operations of the Tokyo government to achieve breakthroughs that will make our city sustainable.

2. Overcoming crises to accelerate a sustainable recovery

Firm up preparations for a power crunch this winter

This summer, areas across Japan were struck by heavy rain and days of record-breaking heat, leading to numerous cases of heatstroke. Adding to the severity of the situation was the tight power supply-demand balance. Thanks to the tremendous cooperation that we received from everyone, we were able to avert a grave situation. However, the situation remains unpredictable for the winter ahead. We will further refine the HTT initiative that we have been implementing over the course of the power crunch, which encourages consumers to save, generate, and store electricity. This includes further support for efforts taken by companies and households to save electricity and accelerating action at Tokyo Metropolitan Government offices that sets an example for others. Through these efforts, we will firm up preparations for the coming winter together with the people and businesses of Tokyo.

Protect the people of Tokyo from soaring costs and support economic recovery

Measures to counter the prolonged rise in fuel costs are also urgently needed. On the currency markets, this month, the Japanese yen slid past the 140 yen to the U.S. dollar mark for the first time in twenty-four years. The impact of this historic weakening of the yen on the cost of living is further aggravating the situation. It is essential that we protect the livelihoods of the people of Tokyo and strongly support economic recovery. We will provide financial support to ensure that health care, child care, long-term care, and other fundamental services within our society that cannot easily pass on price increases to users can continue to function. And, in addition to developing markets for small and medium-sized enterprises, we will also promote the creation of workplaces that inspire motivation and strike a balance between increasing productivity and paying higher wages. We will implement a wide range of measures, including support for the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries industries that are also confronting rising costs and the promotion of rice and products that use rice flour.

Accelerate decarbonization to overcome the crisis

Working to make the installation of solar PV systems mandatory

For our country, which depends heavily on fossil fuels imported from abroad, the key to energy security lies in the pursuit of decarbonization. The fate of this pursuit relies on the actions of Tokyo, a major consumer of energy. That is why we are undertaking a review of Tokyo’s environmental protection ordinance to fundamentally enhance and thoroughly implement Tokyo’s policies from the perspective of HTT. It is critical that measures be implemented for the residential sector where energy consumption is growing in comparison to the industrial and transportation sectors. That is why we have proposed the creation of Japan’s first system that will require solar PV systems to be installed on small and medium-sized buildings, such as homes, newly built by major housing suppliers and others. The purpose of this system is to promote the improvement of the environmental performance of buildings together with housing suppliers, homeowners, and home buyers. The movement to make installation mandatory for new houses is a global trend, having already expanded to places such as the State of California in the United States, and Berlin, Germany. We will not miss this opportunity to leave behind a city to future generations that we can be proud of, one that is friendly to both people and the planet.

In introducing this system, it is essential that we have the understanding and support of the people and businesses of Tokyo, and that we all work together as we advance it. To achieve this, we will provide detailed support, including making sure that there are sufficient consultation desks to respond to an array of inquiries and working with housing related organizations to raise public awareness. We will go on to further review matters such as how to reduce initial costs and the cost of replacing related equipment, as well as systems for post-installation follow up and promotion of recycling. In addition, we will raise the effectiveness of this system by encouraging homebuilders and others to take their own initiatives for its smooth implementation.

Utilize all sorts of energy sources to go all out

Our efforts will not stop with solar energy. We will develop the potential of diverse next-generation energy sources, including hydrogen and geothermal heat, for an all-out push to become carbon neutral.

The use of green hydrogen, which does not generate CO2 emissions during the production process, not only contributes to the world’s transition to carbon neutrality, it also presents a prime opportunity to raise Tokyo’s level of international competitiveness. I recently met with industry leaders to exchange views at our first Tokyo Green Hydrogen Roundtable, held last month. And, together with the private sector, we will more closely examine specific matters in order to promote the use of hydrogen.

A movement that aims to make all motorcycles electric vehicles has also emerged in Japan’s industrial sector. Amid ever stricter environmental regulations around the world, we must further speed up the shift to zero emission vehicles (ZEVs). We will also advance talks with Formula E racing stakeholders to host a Formula E race in 2024. As the world’s premier electric vehicle racing series, Formula E could also serve as a catalyst for the shift to ZEVs.

Currently, we are seeing green transformation (GX) spreading throughout the world. This movement seeks to transform our fossil fuel-centered society into a clean energy-centered society that achieves a balance with economic growth. The HTT initiative that I have spoken of today and on many occasions, and also the sustainable recovery from the pandemic pursued by Tokyo are in precise alignment with the promotion of GX. We will turn the current energy crisis into an opportunity to accelerate initiatives for a better future. This includes initiatives for the micro, small and medium-sized businesses that support Tokyo's economy.

Toward a more resilient city

Realization of a safe and secure city. Tokyo’s sustainable growth hinges upon this important issue. Therefore, we must take constant steps to enhance our readiness.

Measures to counter COVID-19

First, allow me to speak about COVID-19 countermeasures. We recently finalized Tokyo’s policies for “living with COVID.” While utilizing the framework built by the TMG for health and medical care provision, we will make further improvements to enhance these systems that protect the lives and health of Tokyo residents. Additionally, we will continue to properly respond to this invisible enemy and promote a balance between preventing the spread of infection and achieving social and economic recovery. Based on these two policies, we will now advance to a new stage under three pillars—enhancement of the systems for the provision of health care and medical care, promotion of vaccines, and firm implementation of infection prevention measures.

Concerning the overhaul of the system used nationwide requiring that all COVID-19 cases be reported to public health centers, in line with changes in the situation, such as facilitation of the use of the My HER-SYS system to monitor health—something that we have been requesting for a long time—and the use of oral medication to treat COVID-19 symptoms, we have made the decision that Tokyo will start implementing the new reporting system from next week, on the 26th. We will establish a system to enable those who are no longer included in reports to public health centers to receive health monitoring services if they wish, to help them feel safe. Uchisapo Tokyo and the At-home Recovery Follow-up Center will carry out their functions to the fullest extent possible to promptly respond when patients experience a sudden change in condition. In addition, preventing symptoms from becoming serious is key to protecting lives. To enhance measures for the elderly who are at high risk, we will open a medical care facility in Aoyama that is also capable of accepting individuals who are in need of a high level of nursing care. While working to provide medical care and nursing care in an integrated manner, the facility will also handle requests to accept emergency patients.

We will also promote vaccinations, which prevent symptoms from becoming serious and break the chain of infection. Regarding the Omicron booster, we will first offer it to those eligible for the current fourth vaccination, including senior citizens and health care workers. Starting this week, we will expand eligibility to receive the Omicron booster at mass vaccination centers operated by the TMG to include the police, fire department, and other essential workers. And, from next month, we will expand this to include everyone eligible for their third or fourth vaccination.

We will ensure that “living with COVID” is firmly established. Vaccines, ventilation, and masks: firm implementation of these infection prevention measures are absolutely essential to maintain a balance with socioeconomic activities. I would like to request the ongoing cooperation of the people and businesses of Tokyo.

While COVID is still an issue, of course, we must also address the challenge of determining how we as a nation will prepare and respond to the next infectious disease crisis. So that the central government and local governments can present a united front for implementing effective measures, in the review of Japan’s laws and measures for infectious disease control, we will continue to strongly urge the central government to make revisions based on considerations such as the “Tokyo Model” that the TMG has been building to date.

Building a resilient city that can withstand disasters

We will also promote urban development to create a highly disaster-resilient city. We have started a review of implementation plans for measures for people who become stranded and are unable to return home following a disaster based on new damage estimates for a major earthquake that could occur at any time. We aim to compile changes by the end of this fiscal year along with revisions to the Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Management Plan. And, with regard to removing utility poles, in addition to working to advance efforts on private roads in areas with close-set wooden houses as soon as possible, we have also formulated a new development plan to realize the vision to completely eliminate utility poles on Tokyo’s Toshima and Mikurajima islands. We will steadily advance these plans, including devising construction methods tailored to the characteristics of the islands. Furthermore, close cooperation with the central government and municipalities is vital when major flooding and storms occur. We recently announced an interim report on the operation of regional evacuation locations, appropriate ways to disseminate information, and other matters. We will further deepen discussions to have this contribute to enhanced evacuation measures.

In addition, we have compiled the direction for upgrading disaster preparedness measures based on the heightened risks threatening Tokyo residents, including measures for natural disasters that wreak havoc and problematic infectious diseases. We aim to formulate the Urban Resilience Project (tentative name) by the end of this fiscal year by gathering the knowledge of the people and businesses of Tokyo, experts, and others, from a common perspective of this direction.

3. Open innovation to carve the future

The TMG will continue to change so that Tokyo can overcome the various difficulties it faces. Obtaining knowledge, technology and a mindset that government agencies find difficult to absorb—incorporating this fresh outside air will give birth to new services. Such “open innovation” will be key to shaping the future.

A new stage to support startups

Startups play an important role here. We will surge up to a new stage together with them. Last month, I kicked this off with the vice chair of Keidanren. Leaving the Nishi-Shinjuku area, the TMG set up a base in a shared office in Toranomon. In this space, people come face-to-face, breathe the same air and share minds. The best and brightest from our various bureaus are stationed here to provide concentrated support at one stop. A director general was newly appointed and we will also upgrade the "Startup Collaboration Strategy" in November so that the TMG will come together as one team to nurture the budding seeds of innovation. Furthermore, in February next year, we will hold an international event gathering domestic and international companies and investors to support startups in taking on challenges. Under the concept of "SusHi Tech Tokyo," short for "Sustainable High-Ⅽity-Tech.Tokyo," the Tokyo government will also strategically inform the world of the various ideas and technologies it is leveraging to overcome Tokyo’s urban challenges.

Generating policy innovation with a new organization

We will also move forward with structural reform of the metropolitan government at explosive speed using open innovation. The TMG has been refining its user-oriented services by leveraging digital technology. For maximum display of the benefits of digital transformation and to swiftly respond in both quality and quantity to the upsurge in digital needs, it would be essential to create new mechanisms to take Tokyo's DX to the next stage.

With the aim to have Tokyo, including the municipalities, work together as one to improve services, we have announced our vision of establishing "GovTech Tokyo," a new organization that will bring together high degrees of specialization to push ahead measures. We will steadily advance preparations for its launch next year and through the combination of the power within and power outside the Tokyo government, we will give birth to policy innovation.

4. Becoming an attractive city that looks to the future and captivates the world

Next, I wish to speak about urban development that looks to the future and captivates the world.

Maximizing the potential of the Bay Area

We will roll out initiatives in the Bay Area to substantially draw out its potentials. In December, Loop Road No. 2 will be fully opened to traffic for completion of this major artery linking the waterfront area and the city center. This will not only improve accessibility, but will dramatically increase the appeal of our city by connecting these highly individualistic communities of Tokyo.

The planting of seeds for the future is underway in each of these districts as well. For example, at the former site of the Olympic and Paralympic Village in Harumi, we will begin construction of a hydrogen station with the aim of supplying hydrogen to the district through pipelines—the first such practical implementation in Japan. For the development of the former Tsukiji Market site, we will promote the creation of an attractive district that draws the world by leveraging the advantages of this vast piece of land in the heart of the city. Under the implementation policy, which has already been formulated, we will announce the developer solicitation guidelines by the end of this year. And in the spring of 2024, as part of the "Tokyo Bay eSG Project," a large-scale event will be held to showcase to the world our vision for a sustainable city. We will use the waterfront area as a stage to demonstrate a future Tokyo open to the world, including cutting-edge technologies that are rapidly being implemented, and new styles for food, including the utilization of food tech.

Urban development of the Jingu Gaien district

Through efforts taken by the venerable Shibusawa Eiichi and others, the Jingu Gaien garden was built with trees and monetary donations from the public. In response to the voices of the people of Tokyo concerning the redevelopment of this area, and requests from the TMG based on these views, the developer has presented a new concept for planting trees from donations, in addition to their plans to send out detailed information and preserve the trees through the united efforts of the stakeholders. I hope they will value and carry on the thoughts of our predecessors who built this area, and engage in urban development that looks 100 years into the future.

Enhancing the appeal of the Tama area even more

The Tama area, with its abundant nature and an environment that is friendly for raising children, is full of potential for new growth. We will work to enhance the attractiveness of this area even more to ensure a bright future full of vitality.

In Hachioji, Tokyo Tama Mirai Messe, which has one of the largest exhibition halls in the Tama area and is also capable of holding MICE events, will finally open next month. Fully utilizing the area’s concentration of universities, research institutes, and other such organizations, it will not only serve as a core for regional industrial exchange, but will also work to boost revitalization of industry as a center for dissemination of innovation. In Tachikawa, we will open a center for employment support that brings together "Tokyo Shigoto Center Tama" and the "Labor Consultation Center.” In addition to providing one-stop support integrated with Hello Work, the center will provide detailed individualized support, including a dedicated desk for people with disabilities.

Furthermore, for Minami-Osawa, based on the recent public comments on development of the area around the station, which is currently under study, we will formulate a policy within this fiscal year. Regarding the extension of the Tama Intercity Monorail in the direction of Hakonegasaki, we will begin city planning and other procedures next month, and will hold an information session for residents of municipalities along the line.

5. For an even more mature city where each person can shine

Creating a city brimming with the smiles of children

This summer, through the input of various public and private entities, more than 200 events were held to bring smiles to children's faces. The happy faces of children are social assets that must be protected. We must take firm steps to nurture them.

For a society where having and raising children are easy

We must build a society where anyone who wishes to have and raise children can do so with ease. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has been working to ease the burden of fertility treatment costs, by taking the initiative in implementing measures that go beyond the framework of the national government’s subsidy scheme. Against this backdrop, the national government made a major shift in policy to have fertility treatment covered by health insurance starting this April, but the cost of advanced medical treatment is not covered. In this fiscal year, the TMG will establish a system to subsidize a portion of this cost. We will continue to provide firm support and respond to the sincere wishes of Tokyo residents who want to have children.

In addition, the TMG has decided to use a new term, Ikugyo (job of parenting), to replace Ikukyu (leave for parenting). While providing various information such as housework and parenting tips and stories that will make people aware of their unconscious biases and assumptions, we will give full encouragement to mothers and fathers who are taking leave for the “job of parenting.” By enhancing incentives to companies to encourage their employees to take parenting leave, and starting a registration system that will improve its image, we will also have this lead to the creation of a virtuous cycle in which parenting experience provides individuals and companies with opportunities for growth.

Ceaseless review of policies to be more children centered

This month, a tragic incident occurred in Shizuoka Prefecture in which a 3-year-old child died after being left behind on a preschool facility’s bus. The TMG immediately launched an emergency inspection of all childcare facilities such as daycare centers and kindergartens. We will continue to form highly effective measures through a combination of holding hearings and workshops, and providing financial support to facilities for the initiatives they are taking.

In order to achieve a society that is “children first,” it is important that we take on the perspective of children and consider what must be done. Are we responding to their specific problems? Are we providing appropriate services? Under a TMG-wide project team, we will take up challenges including current-day problems such as that of young caregivers, and initiatives for the education and growth of children in preschool groups. We will vigorously proceed with studies for the creation of new children policies, and accelerate our steps toward a Tokyo brimming with the smiles of children.

Development of human resources with an eye to the world

Studies responding flexibly to current needs

The world is moving at an astonishing speed, and technology is constantly evolving. Even in this rapidly changing environment, I want children to be able to freely envision their future and acquire the ability to shape it themselves.

The country of Japan is protected by a high wall in the form of the Japanese language. In the eyes of the rest of the world, Tokyo appears to be in seclusion. Developing global literacy broadens horizons and also helps develop future potential. In Tokyo metropolitan high schools, international exchange with the UAE in the Middle East will begin, in addition to the current exchanges with North American, Oceania, and other regions. We will also start a new program for high school students studying in specialized courses to go abroad. In addition, we will expand the immersive English learning facility, TOKYO GLOBAL GATEWAY. Along with moving ahead with steady preparations to open a new facility in Tachikawa next January, in the island region, we have already launched a virtual program that allows students to learn practical English while in the classroom. While deepening discussions with the members of the Board of Education at the "General Education Conference" to be held next month, we will promote the development of global human resources who can soar out into the world from the international city of Tokyo.

The Tokyo Metropolitan University is also offering special classes by prominent lecturers including those who teach at the world’s top universities. In addition, TMU will take the first step toward becoming a university open to the world by introducing a fall admission system in the 2024 school year. We will nurture talent who will support Japan in the future by having them study together with students gathered from across the world.

Nurturing fashion designers who can be active on the global stage

The accomplishments of the late Mori Hanae and Miyake Issey contributed enormously to making Tokyo a fashion center that aligns with cities in Europe and the United States. Next March, we will hold a fashion contest for students to encourage them to follow in the footsteps of these extraordinary fashion designers. We are currently accepting applications for the contest and will cultivate the next generation of globally active talent.

Rolling out the Olympic and Paralympic legacy

There was a large turnout at the events held in various locations this summer to commemorate the first anniversary of the Tokyo 2020 Games. Looking over this sight, which could not be realized a year ago, I reconfirmed my commitment to the thoughts embodied in the words, TOKYO FORWARD. We will turn our invaluable experience and legacy into a power to develop our city and take Tokyo to new heights.

Sports legacy

The Kasai Canoe Slalom Center is now open to the public for the enjoyment of water sports by everyone. The Ariake Arena, which was the venue for events celebrating the first anniversary of the Paralympics has also opened, creating new vibrancy through live concerts and other events. And on the 16th next month, the Tokyo Legacy Half Marathon will be held on the Paralympic marathon course. With the cooperation of volunteers, we hope to share the joy of “playing, watching, and supporting” sports, which was created by the Tokyo 2020 Games.

We will also work to bring bicycles, which are both healthy and environment friendly, closer to people. Following the Rainbow Bridge Ride, which will be held in November, we will hold a road race next fall on the legacy course in the Tama area. We hope that many people will enjoy these events to further spread the appeal of bicycles.

Furthermore, in 2025, the World Athletics Championships, which gathers the world’s top athletes, and the Deaflympics, a comprehensive international competition for deaf athletes, will be held here in Tokyo. These will provide a golden opportunity to have the dynamic sight of the athletes deliver the value, inspiration, and courage of sports to our children who hold the future in their hands. By making it possible for anyone to enjoy sports, such as by facilitating smooth communication through the application of digital technology and other means, we will boost the realization of an inclusive society.

Achieving a society without barriers

We will have the Tokyo Games concept of Unity in Diversity penetrate all corners of the city in order to realize a society that has removed barriers of all kinds.

One symbolic initiative here was making general guest rooms in hotels accessible. Tokyo was the first in Japan to include this criteria in an ordinance. We received high praise from IPC President Parsons who came here for a site visit last month. So that all wheelchair users, including those in electric wheelchairs, can enjoy a more comfortable stay, we will continue to revise the standards while hearing the views of Tokyo residents and relevant organizations.

The Sign Language Ordinance, which was proposed and passed by this Assembly at the last regular session, was enacted this month. Through this we will make Tokyo a city where each individual can shine. We will ensure the availability of information for those with disabilities, and firmly establish a society where everyone can naturally lend a helping hand.

In addition, based on the so-called Ordinance for Respecting Human Rights, we have begun studies for the next revision of the Basic Plan on Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation. In order to enhance the effectiveness of the Partnership Oath System, which will begin in November, and promote understanding in society regarding sexual diversity, it will contain measures that embrace those concerned.

6. Nomination of Tokyo Honorable Citizens

For the title of Tokyo Honorable Citizen, we have selected three candidates this year: Ms. Ishii Fukuko, Mr. Hayata Takuji, and Mr. Honda Kazuo. As a television producer and theater director, Ishii Fukuko has given the world many moving works, and still remains active on the forefront. In addition to winning gold in gymnastics at the Tokyo 1964 Olympic Games, Hayata Takuji has made great contributions to the world of sports here in Japan. Honda Kazuo operates several small independent theaters, mainly in the Shimokitazawa area. For more than 40 years, Mr. Honda has supported the dreams of artists and contributed to the development of the theatrical world. With the approval of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly, we would like to award these three worthy candidates with the title of Honorable Citizen next month. The cooperation of the Assembly would be most appreciated.

7. In conclusion

The bright lights in the hearts of the each person, namely, hopes and dreams, are what push them forward. I am sure of this. The restoration of Tokyo about a century ago following the Great Kanto Earthquake was made possible because people’s hearts were stirred by the grand design for the future that was envisioned by Goto Shinpei. In addition, it was none other than the efforts of our predecessors who held dreams for a prosperous state that transformed Japan into an economic powerhouse after the war. Since we are currently up against major crises, I believe that it is now the time to shift the mindset of our citizens from low spirits to a more positive direction. By swiftly implementing policies to set Tokyo on the path to growth, I wish to implant hope in each of their hearts that “Tokyo will become even better” and “Japan will also become even better.”

We are now truly standing at the entrance to a bright future. We, here today, and each and every Tokyo resident are the key players. Let’s together push forward with the grand reform of Tokyo, a transformational, or should I say, innovative change of the metropolitan government, and forge the path to a new age.

Including the matters to which I have already referred, a total of 32 bills, including 1 budget bill and 16 ordinance bills, have been presented to this regular session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly for deliberation among the Assembly members.

This concludes my speech to the Assembly. Thank you.

 

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