Governor’s Address at July 2026 TMG Executive Meeting

On July 6, 2026, Governor Koike attended the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) executive meeting and delivered the following address to senior management.

Forward

Today, Vice Governors Sato Tomohide and Sato Akira assumed their posts, and several bureaus also welcomed new leadership. At a time of growing uncertainty in global affairs, we have placed the right people in the right positions to realize our vision of a sustainable Tokyo. Taking this opportunity, I would like to share a few remarks.

Advancing Structural Reforms in Society

First, the situation in the Middle East. In the wake of this turmoil, we are now facing a fundamental challenge for our country—securing resources. It was also a stark reminder that we need a strategic, medium- to long-term perspective, instead of the usual stopgap measures. 

Beyond energy, Japan faces a range of challenges, including sluggish economic growth, increasingly severe natural disasters caused by climate change, and population decline. For the whole country to achieve sustainable growth in this context, we must fully harness the potential of Tokyo as the nation's capital.

Furthermore, we will review any aspects of the current system or regulations that are outdated or could hinder our efforts. We need to act with firm commitment to transform the social structure. This applies not only to the heads of bureaus but also to every employee. Please bear this in mind when carrying out your duties.

Tokyo’s Role to Spearhead Japan’s Growth

The responsibility of Tokyo, as Japan’s capital, is precisely to drive the growth of the whole country. By leveraging the technologies and ideas accumulated in Tokyo, let us take the lead in solving common challenges and share the results with other regions across the country. Maximizing the impact of policies through synergies by collaborating with the national government is also vital.

The key to Tokyo’s growth lies in the use of AI, evolving at a pace far exceeding expectations. Let us firmly advance AI transformation (AX) within the metropolitan government, further improve quality of service (QOS) through pioneering initiatives, and expand administrative AX beyond Tokyo to the rest of the country.

The other day, the ordinance to promote women’s empowerment came into effect. Japan’s and Tokyo’s greatest potential lies in the power of women who make up half the population. With the communicating power of Ms. Matsumoto, who will lead the promotion of women’s empowerment, let us work as one to realize a Tokyo where everyone—women, men, children, and the elderly—can shine and be fully engaged.

Constantly Aware of “Capital Defense” 

We must also never forget “Capital Defense”—protecting the lives and livelihoods of Tokyo residents. Last month, earthquakes with a maximum seismic intensity of 6 upper struck off the coast of Iwate Prefecture, and a 6 lower one hit Yamanashi Prefecture. On a global level, you all know that a 7-plus magnitude earthquake has caused extensive damage in Venezuela. 

Also last month, with Typhoon Jangmi approaching, level 4 flood warnings were issued for Zenpukuji and other rivers. The regulating reservoirs have functioned effectively to prevent flooding. Regarding natural disasters, which may strike at any time and in multiple locations, we are reminded once again of the need to be fully prepared at all times and to respond flexibly.

Moreover, as I stated in my recent policy speech, targeted measures and concentrated investment in Tokyo are highly effective for reducing disasters. They directly link to national strength, too. While precisely communicating the factual effectiveness of our accumulated disaster measures, we will steadfastly work to ensure the safety and peace of mind of Tokyo residents, with “Capital Defense” on our minds.

Incorporating Global Trends to Better Govern Tokyo

For Tokyo to further enhance its international presence, each of you should venture abroad for firsthand experience. I myself assumed the role of Chair of the OECD Champion Mayors this January and am working to further strengthen multicity lateral cooperation. I will also visit the U.S. next week to speak at the High-Level Segment of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), to share Tokyo’s pioneering initiatives. While in New York, I will carry out promotional activities to encourage investment and strengthen our international competitiveness.

I ask you all to view Tokyo from a global perspective, feel the real dynamics of international society, and apply these insights to your work. With a keen awareness of global trends on a daily basis, let us cultivate a broad perspective and swiftness to achieve strategic governance of the metropolis.

In Conclusion

This month marks the start of my eleventh year as governor. Throughout my term, I have repeatedly emphasized to you that “people” are at the heart of our policies. This message has steadily taken root. The number of births has risen for the first time in a decade, and I can feel Tokyoites resonating with us. Let us further drive our efforts to serve the city’s people and work together on the Grand Reform of Tokyo.

Summer is now in full swing. Please continue to apply “cool” work styles thoroughly to beat the heat, such as early-morning shifts and working from home. Let’s lead the Tokyo Cool Biz movement and help establish a sustainable lifestyle—this new norm—from the TMG into society at large. I guess many of you will be taking your summer holidays. Be sure to take your time off and refresh both your mind and body.

Let our energy from Tokyo fuel Japan’s growth. And let’s all work together to make Tokyo the world’s number one city. I am counting on all of you.

That concludes my remarks. Let’s do our best.