Policy Speech by the Governor of Tokyo, Koike Yuriko, at the Fourth Regular Session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly, 2021

In opening the fourth regular session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly in 2021, I wish to relate my basic stance on future metropolitan administration.

1. Restoring Tokyo’s economy and achieving growth beyond that

Shore up preparations and place Tokyo’s economy on the path to recovery

It will soon be two years since our harsh battle against COVID-19 began. Our exposure to the threat of an unknown virus has now taken a new turn with the infection situation in Tokyo improving dramatically. The full resources of Japan came together to promote vaccinations, and we now have one of the highest vaccination rates in the world. I would like to again deeply thank the people and businesses of Tokyo for their enormous cooperation in wearing masks, avoiding travel, and taking other preventive measures, and the health care workers for their dedication to protecting the lives of the Tokyo residents. Our current situation has only become possible through the cooperation of each and every one of you.

However, we must definitely not lower our guard. Please recall the situation just about a year ago when severely ill patients numbered 70 and the 7-day average for new cases was 419. Spurred on by the cold winter season and many year-end and New Year events, this led to the third wave. Full deployment of vaccines began around April this year. While various situations surrounding COVID were improving, we went through the fifth wave, and here we are now. We must seize the opportunity presented by the current suppression of infections to get fully prepared for a sixth wave. Now is the time for us to secure the safety of our residents by fully utilizing the knowledge and experiences we have accumulated during our fight against the virus to roll out measures that are one step ahead. We must also maintain a balance between safety and socioeconomic activities for definite establishment of the new normal, and place Tokyo—the foundation supporting Japan—on the path to economic recovery.

In addition to initiatives in the areas of health care and the economy, as we also need to provide assistance for businesses struggling from the surge in oil prices and to transition to carbon neutrality, we compiled a supplementary budget bill and have submitted it to this regular session of the Assembly. The path to recovery of the economy will be ensured by none other than enhancing the management capabilities and earning potential of small and medium-sized companies, which are the cornerstones of Tokyo’s industries. Along with promoting the development of new markets and shifts in business styles, we will provide support for sectors with labor shortages to secure manpower. In line with the national government’s “Go To Travel” initiative, we will support the recovery of the tourism industry by securing a budget for travel subsidies. In addition, in order to strike a balance between infection prevention measures and socioeconomic activities, for those who are unable to be vaccinated due to health and other reasons, tests that they require will be made available free of charge.

Eliminating Japan’s structural issues

And, what must not be forgotten are the structural issues of Japan, which were exposed by the pandemic. Among them, the miserable state of response to digital technology, in which Japan is running one lap behind the rest of the world, was clearly evident in the recent IMD World Digital Competitiveness Ranking, in which our country again ranked its lowest ever, with the other countries and regions of Asia opening a big lead as well.

Japan’s economic stagnation, once referred to as the “lost decade,” is now called by some as the “lost three decades,” but we definitely cannot fall behind the world by failing to ride the current tide of decarbonization, as well as the wave of digitalization. With this sense of crisis driving us forward, we will break through this situation and take Tokyo to greater heights. What is needed is not just rounds of discussions and fanfare, or an endless number of field tests, but concrete action. We will boldly push forward with digital, green, and other investments in the future. Building on the legacy of the Tokyo 2020 Games, we will increase diversity and generate innovations one after another. Above all, we will nurture people, who are the very source of this growth.

Amid this unprecedented, critical situation, we will use our latent power—the power that was able to deliver a successful Games—to boost Tokyo’s international competitiveness and have this contribute to realizing fulfilling lives for the people of Tokyo. I am strongly determined to press forward by taking the lead in such actions.

2. Strengthening crisis management systems to build a safe and secure Tokyo

The prerequisite for providing such government services is solid crisis management. We cannot anticipate growth for Tokyo or Japan if the safe and secure foundation for the basic activities of Tokyo citizens is shaken. Although the situation currently appears to be stabilizing, there is always the risk that a resurgence of Covid-19 will occur.

Last month, an earthquake measuring an Upper 5 on the Japanese seismic intensity scale was felt in Tokyo. The effects of the climate crisis are also becoming more apparent in the form of typhoons and heavy rain storms that wreak havoc each year. We must also plan for the possibility that any combination of these crises could strike simultaneously, at any time, and ensure that we are fully prepared for any scenario. We will steadily push ahead with initiatives to create a resilient Tokyo where citizens can lead active lives without anxiety or fear.

Response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

First, there is the immediate crisis before us, COVID-19. A new variant, Omicron, is rapidly spreading worldwide. We must approach this development with an abundance of caution. Therefore, yesterday, I placed a request for swift implementation of border control measures with the national government. Under the national government’s new infection level classification system, which places greater weight on the level of strain being felt by the health care system, if signs of a resurgence are detected, we will take proactive steps and mobilize all of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s resources with the aim to contain the spread of the virus at the earliest possible time.

Reinforcing and enhancing the health care provision system

We will build up the health care provision system to ensure that it does not falter over the year-end and New Year’s holidays or when there is a resurgence of cases. We will substantially increase the number of rooms secured at designated hotels for recovery, and promote the use of antibody cocktail treatments by doctors making house calls. Furthermore, we will promote the return of nurses and others to work and the development of human resources, as well as the use of digital technology, such as the introduction of wearable devices for monitoring one’s health condition, among other efforts, to maximize the strengths of health care in Tokyo.

Promoting vaccinations

Vaccinations are our best weapon against COVID-19. We will leverage the TOKYO Vaction APP service to encourage as many people as possible to get vaccinated. In a study conducted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, it was revealed that the level of antibodies, which are expected to be effective in preventing infection, greatly decrease about seven months after receiving the second vaccination dose. To prevent a future resurgence of infections, it is extremely important that we steadily advance the rollout of the third dose. Starting next month, we will begin offering booster shots to those working in fields such as health care at mass vaccination centers. And, in cooperation with municipalities and others, we will also establish systems for smooth provision of vaccinations to ensure that we are firmly on the path to containing the spread of the virus.

Reviewing damage estimates for a major earthquake that directly strikes Tokyo

Next, we must consider the threat of earthquakes. About ten years have passed since the formulation of damage estimates from a major earthquake that directly strikes Tokyo and the predicted Nankai Trough Earthquake. We have been promoting every possible measure to support the safety and security of the people of Tokyo, including measures to make the city more seismic and fire resistant. Taking into account information, such as what we have learned from the earthquakes that have occurred across Japan during this period of time and the increasing threat of a Nankai Trough Earthquake, we have recently commenced studies with an eye to revising damage estimates. We aim to compile the results by spring of next year and have them reflected in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area Disaster Management Plan.

Protecting the citizens of Tokyo from flood damage

And, now, moving on to floods. Bolstering preparations for the growing threat of a major flood in the eastern low-lying areas of Tokyo is an urgent issue, as the area is expected to sustain severe damage should such an event occur. Along with completing work on river facilities to improve resistance to earthquakes and water intrusion, including along the Onagi River, we will also formulate the next development plan within the year and expand the area covered. In addition, to further reinforce the functions of shoreline protection facilities at the Port of Tokyo in anticipation of sea level rise and other effects of climate change, we will advance the study of revisions to the current plan.

It is also necessary to speed up measures for urban development that “creates higher ground,” such as establishing groups of buildings where evacuation space is secured in the upper floors. The Funabori district of Edogawa-ku is a model for such development. Working with the municipality and others, we will promote initiatives, including commencing the study of development in the Funabori district utilizing the national government’s support scheme, the first project to do so in Japan. And, in addition to vigorously securing evacuation locations across the region, we will further strengthen systems for cooperation with municipalities and encourage the use of varied evacuation strategies tailored to each Tokyo citizen’s individual risk. Truly united as one in Tokyo, we will engage in disaster preparedness measures.

Acceleration of utility pole removal

Lastly, there is the removal of utility poles. On Oshima Island, which sustained heavy damage due to Typhoon No. 15 (Typhoon Faxai) in 2019, we completed restoration work in the Sashikiji and Habu Port areas as quickly as possible. At the start of the new year, we will formulate a new plan for the elimination of utility poles in the Tokyo Islands and speed up initiatives for the islands, including advancing intensive projects on each of the islands.

3. Realizing a sustainable recovery by leveraging decarbonization and digitalization

In order to restore Tokyo’s economy, our goal must not simply be a return to pre-COVID days. Transitioning to carbon neutral is a global trend, and digital transformation (DX) must be advanced at an explosive speed. We will not only respond agilely to such structural changes around society, but will also have these propel sustainable growth. We will strongly promote initiatives to achieve a sustainable recovery, and transform Tokyo into the world’s city of choice.

Urban development that looks to the future

Symbolic of investment in the future to guide us to the next stage is the Tokyo Bay eSG Project. Water, greenery, risk management, digital technology, innovation, and diverse forms of mobility are indispensable for Tokyo's growth. We will lead the world in creating a sustainable next-generation city where these elements that lead to people's happiness are naturally integrated. For the realization of this vision, last week we released a draft of the urban development strategy that envisions the Bay Area in the 2040s. While deepening cooperation with various stakeholders, we will encourage private sector development and promote future urban development that will serve as a model for the world. Along with this, in coordination with this strategy as well, we will also formulate a policy for implementing the urban development of Tsukiji. This vast plot of land in the city center will serve as the stage where the area’s history, food culture, and other potentials will be fully leveraged to significantly enhance Tokyo’s appeal and to continue to attract visitors.

Realization of “Carbon Half” by 2030

COP26 ended the other day. When I was the Minister of the Environment, I attended this conference three times, from COP9 to 11. At that time Japan was truly a leading country in environmental policies, and I recall receiving many requests from other countries to learn from us. As the race heats up for leadership in preparing international rules for decarbonization, Tokyo, one of the world’s largest cities, must take the top position and lead Japan and the world again.

We will evolve upon Tokyo’s renewable energy and energy-saving measures, and blaze the trail for our country to transition to zero carbon. At the last regular session of this assembly, I announced that we will make it obligatory for houses and other buildings to install photovoltaic power systems. In addition to these plans, in order to strengthen and expand programs such as the cap-and-trade program, which is gathering much interest from other countries around the world, we asked a council to discuss amendment of the Environmental Conservation ordinance. Moreover, in order to further clarify the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders such as the industrial sector and households, we recently indicated new goals for carbon and energy reduction by sector to halve carbon emissions by 2030, what we call “carbon half,” and released the basic framework of measures to realize this. Our actions over the coming 10 years will form our future. With the understanding and collaboration of the residents and businesses of Tokyo, we will confront this climate crisis by gathering the full resources of Tokyo.

Create a virtuous circle of the environment and economy

We will also work to stimulate industries that contribute to the environment. We will promote innovation through, among others, provision of development assistance by the Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Technology Research Institute and grants to startups engaged in zero emission technology innovation. In addition, the widespread use of electric motorcycles, which have low impact on the environment, will also strengthen the competitiveness of our world-leading domestic manufacturers. Not only will Tokyo’s organizations, centering on the Metropolitan Police Department and Tokyo Fire Department, take the lead in introducing these vehicles, but this weekend we will hold an event to familiarize our residents with them through test rides and other experiences, and fully convey their appeal.

The development and introduction of new technologies that contribute to global warming measures will generate sustainable growth and raise our international competitiveness. In order to establish this virtuous cycle of the environment and the economy, the power of finance is indispensable. Based on the Global Financial City: Tokyo Vision 2.0, which was just released, we will secure a flow of capital to promote green initiatives. Moreover, we will establish the TMU Tokyo Research Initiative for Sustainability, which will collect the research capacity of the Tokyo Metropolitan University, and provide academic support for tackling the various challenges faced by the metropolitan government, centering on galvanizing green finance, and this will be linked to the realization of a sustainable society.

Promotion of digital transformation

Achieve a connected Tokyo through the “Tokyo Data Highway”

The infrastructure for promotion of digital transformation (DX) is an ultra high-speed mobile network, the “Data Highway.” In order to expand the installation of 5G base stations, in addition to releasing 15,000 metropolitan-owned facilities for these stations, last week we launched a new initiative to have private companies provide information on their assets. Moreover, through the Tokyo Data Highway Summit that will be held next January, we will deepen collaboration even more with telecommunications carriers, and through such public-private partnerships, we will strongly promote initiatives for the realization of a Smart Tokyo.

Collaboration between civic technology and government

The COVID-19 information website, “Updates on COVID-19 in Tokyo,” which was launched by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government last year, was highly appraised. It even received the Good Design Award. The source code is made publically available, and the site is continuously improved through civic participation. In order to promote such leading initiatives of civic technology to find solutions to government service issues, next month we will be holding a Hackathon where participants compete in developing digital services using Tokyo’s open data. Through this event, collaboration between civic technology and government will create a new mechanism to generate totally new services.

Accelerating DX through the power of startups

The attraction of startups is their power to agilely catch the needs of the times and continuously shape response. We will link the innovative DX-accelerating products and services of up-and-coming entrepreneurs to leading enterprises and other organizations for their utilization, and through this, promote their social implementation. Pitch events, which will be the bridge for such efforts, will be held intensively from the start of the new year. Detailed support will be provided by experts to facilitate company matchups. By firmly supporting the bold efforts of startups, their budding innovations will be linked to Tokyo’s further evolution.

One-to-one computing in high schools

We will build an environment where no one is left behind and all children can take the initiative to learn and grow while holding hopes for the future. For this as well, the promotion of DX in education is extremely important. At the last regular assembly, I mentioned in my policy speech that we will advance studies on introducing one-to-one computing in metropolitan high schools from the next fiscal year. To ensure that all students in metropolitan high schools possess their own PC, which is an indispensable tool in the classroom, we will establish a system to subsidize all households for the cost of purchasing a PC, setting the cost that guardians must bear at 30,000 yen. For households with three or more children, we will further reduce this cost by half.

Reform of industrial high schools

Industrial high schools, which have fostered the talent supporting the foundations of Tokyo’s industries will be reborn as schools of the new age that produce the personnel needed for digital transformation. Last week, the interim report on this plan, the Next Kogyo START Project, which steps forth on this next path for industrial high schools, was released. We are also examining changes to the school name to fit this new image. Based on the opinions of our citizens and discussions within this assembly, we prepare a strategy by the end of this fiscal year.

4. Building a society free of barriers on all levels

For the legacy of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020, which was held under the “Unity in Diversity” theme, to come to life to realize a society free from barriers on all levels. This is what we must strive for. When each of us recognizes our differences and we support each other, we can further tap into the limitless potential that humans possess. We will create a Tokyo where all people can fully demonstrate their capabilities. This includes not only the children who will take on the future, but women and men, and those with and without disabilities alike.

For the smiles of children

When I think about Tokyo’s future, the first thing that comes to mind is the sight of brightly smiling children throughout the city. The “children’s website,” which is currently under development, is an example of a symbolic initiative we are advancing through dialogue with children. This includes involving children in the creation process to incorporate their originality and ideas. To create a society that values the perspectives of such children and puts them first, we will launch the “Children’s Smile Movement” next month. We will work with municipalities, companies, schools, and others to implement various actions that will help put smiles on the faces of children.

Toward revision of the Comprehensive Plan for Promotion of Gender Equality

Last month, the TMG’s Council for Equal Participation of Men and Women released its interim report on revisions to the plan. In addition to ambitious numerical targets such as raising the percentage of executive positions at major companies filled by women to 30 percent and the percentage of men taking parental leave to 50 percent, the report contains initiatives formulated from a wide range of perspectives, including educational programs that enable people to realize their unconscious biases. Based on discussions held by the council, we will further examine topics such as changing individual perceptions to a greater extent and incentives to encourage companies to be proactive, and expand the participation of women to every area of society.

Building a society that values mutual support

We will also advance initiatives for the creation of a society that values mutual support. To connect people with the desire to help others to a wide range of activities, we have launched the TOKYO Volunteer Legacy Network. Through the network, we will ensure that the momentum cultivated through hosting the Tokyo 2020 Games will be firmly established throughout all of society.

We must not miss calls for help from shut-ins, young caregivers, and other members of society without a voice, who feel isolated or alone. To build a society where people in need of assistance are supported by the strength of their local community, we are advancing the formulation of the next Community Welfare Support Plan. We will respond to increasingly complex and diverse challenges to contribute to the realization of an inclusive society.

Abilympics 2021 Japan and National Skills Competition held in Tokyo

The Abilympics are an event where people with disabilities compete in the skills they have cultivated at their place of work or vocational training facility. At the National Skills Competition, young people from across Japan come together to compete in various categories, including monozukuri manufacturing skills. These two national competitions will be held here in Tokyo next month. I would like to send my heartfelt encouragement to all of the competitors. In addition, I certainly hope that many people will enjoy the superb skills on display. As we work to create a society where everyone can shine, these events will help to promote employment of the disabled and the development of the young people who will shape the future.

Creating a dynamic Tokyo through culture and the arts

Regardless of age, nationality, or disability, 39 million people came together to create the cultural program for the Tokyo 2020 Games. The flame of culture, formed by some 160,000 cultural activities, colorful points of light, which steadily promoted the appeal of Tokyo in the lead-up to the Games, brightened the world in the shadow of the pandemic and sustained people’s hearts. We will not allow the flame of culture to be extinguished, and will ensure that it is passed on to the future. To achieve this, we will formulate a new cultural strategy by the end of this fiscal year to create a dynamic Tokyo through culture and the arts.

5. Policy roll-out and organization

Centering on barrier-free urban development and utilization of cutting-edge technologies, various initiatives were advanced for the Tokyo 2020 Games. We also had the experience of leading the Games to success under a situation that was unprecedented in difficulty. We must, without fail, pass on this invaluable legacy to following generations, so that they can take strong steps toward Tokyo’s radiant future. To shine a light on this path and leverage the legacy of the Games for the development of the city, we will prepare an improved version of Future Tokyo: Tokyo’s Long-Term Strategy within this fiscal year. In addition, we will build a crisis management system that can also respond agilely to various kinds of disasters. We will also work for a restructuring of our organization at an early time in the next fiscal year to allow us to strategically implement policies such as the comprehensive promotion of measures for children.

6. Closing remarks

In the face of numerous adversities, our forebears rose up strongly each time and forged the path to the future. One of them, Goto Shinpei, the seventh mayor of Tokyo, devoted his life to nurturing people and laid the foundation for Tokyo's growth through urban development that draws out the power of people. We must carry on this spirit and take the next step forward.

The COVID-19 pandemic and climate crisis are drastically changing our lives and values, and are also forcing structural changes in society. But beyond this ordeal awaits a future brimming with huge possibilities. There is no doubt that it is the power of people that will seize these opportunities and shape the future.

“First is people, second is people, and third is people.” Again taking these words of Goto Shinpei to heart, we must carefully nurture people who hold the future in their hands and create a society where differences are accepted and everyone plays an active role. We are determined to achieve a sustainable recovery and build a Tokyo full of hope for tomorrow. I ask for the understanding and cooperation of the citizens of Tokyo and the members of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly.

Including the matters to which I have already referred, a total of 32 bills have been presented to this regular session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly, including 1 budget bill and 15 ordinance bills, for deliberation among the Assembly members.

This concludes my policy address to the Assembly. Thank you.

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