Japan-U.S. Leadership Summit Held at UNU in Tokyo

On October 10, Governor Koike attended the “Japan-U.S. Leadership Summit” hosted by the Japan–United States Sister City Association (JUSSCA) at the United Nations University in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo.

Governor Koike said, “The natural disasters of today brought on by climate change are starkly different from those of the past. Meanwhile, technologies such as AI are also evolving faster than anticipated. It is essential that we swiftly advance measures that are now necessary, with an eye to the next 50 and 100 years.

The governor then pointed out, “One necessary measure is building sustainable cities that exist in harmony with nature. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is advancing Tokyo Green Biz, an urban development project that looks 100 years into the future, and is unfolding initiatives to “protect,” “nurture,” and “utilize” greenery. Additionally, by promoting the use of Tokyo wood from the Tama area, we will stimulate demand for timber and promote the forest cycle.

She went on to say, “Another initiative needed now involves the thorough use of advanced technologies. One notable trend is AI’s rapid penetration into our lives. This makes it important to make maximum use of AI’s potential in various fields. In July, we released the Tokyo AI Strategy. This positions AI as a powerful core technology for realization of policies and calls for the thorough use of AI in all aspects of metropolitan government services. These initiatives must be advanced while keeping in mind strengthening resilience that will make our cities stronger against risks of all kinds and allow us to overcome them in a flexible manner. The 21st century is called the “century of the city.” It is cities that must respond to immediate disasters and safeguard their residents. That is why in parallel with multilateralism, it is crucial to advance “multi-city-lateralism.”

In concluding her speech, she said, “This is an age of uncertainty and instability, with the international situation changing moment by moment. As longstanding partners, the United States and Japan must join hands to forge a bright future filled with hope. While deepening ties with the United States, Tokyo will take the initiative in working to solve global challenges.”