Staff Writer

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is creating a welcoming environment for international and Muslim tourists in the build up to the 2020 Olympic Games in the city, said Gov. Yuriko Koike.

Speaking at the launch event of Arab News Japan on Monday, the Arabic-speaking governor said the launch is “wonderful news” as she has worked to strengthen ties between Japan and the Middle East for many years.

“After college, and as a journalist, I had the opportunity to interview many Arab leaders,” she added.

Koike told the audience that she has tried to create mutual understanding in Japan and Arab countries.

“Since being elected governor of Tokyo, I am always inviting many Islamic diplomats and ambassadors from Islamic countries to celebrate iftar during Ramadan,” she said.

Koike expressed hope that visitors, especially from Saudi Arabia, can visit Japan “with peace of mind and comfort.”

She said: “I hope Arab News will be able to act as a bridge to promote mutual understanding between Japan and Saudi Arabia and all the Middle East.”

The eagerly awaited Japanese-language website will focus on enabling exchange of information between Japan and the Arab world in business, current affairs, arts and culture.