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Japan subjects more areas to emergency measures; foreign media to be restricted

The Japanese government on Friday expanded the state of emergency in the country, adding three prefectures to the six already under limitations. (ANJ photo)
The Japanese government on Friday expanded the state of emergency in the country, adding three prefectures to the six already under limitations. (ANJ photo)
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14 May 2021 05:05:05 GMT9
14 May 2021 05:05:05 GMT9

Khaldon Azhari

TOKYO: The Japanese government on Friday expanded the state of emergency in the country, adding three prefectures to the six already under limitations.

Hokkaido, Okayama and Hiroshima prefectures were added to the areas subject to emergency measures. In addition, Gunma, Ishikawa and Kumamoto prefectures will be subject to a “quasi state of emergency,” allowing for less stringent measures to be enacted in these areas, although the period of control will run until June 13.

The main state of emergency is due to end on May 31.

“We respect the opinions of experts that led to these decisions,” Prime Minister SUGA Yoshihide said adding that he was hesitant to declare a state of emergency nationwide and that it was important to take strong regional measures.

In response to a question from Arab News Japan, Suga said the necessary measures would be taken to protect the Tokyo Olympics. “We recognize that the Olympics and Paralympics are the world’s largest peace festivals and give courage and hope to the people,” Suga stated

I understand that there are various opinions among the people about the Tokyo Games amidst the spread of the infection, but the government’s basic idea is to take proper measures to prevent the infection of athletes and people involved and to protect the lives and health of the people.

 However, Suga hinted at a clampdown on foreign media entering Japan during the Olympics and Paralympics. 

“With regard to the number of foreign media coming to Japan for the Tokyo Olympics, we anticipated around 30,000 people would come here from overseas, but on further examination, it is expected to be considerably less. We will restrict their activities. I have been told that we will designate certain hotels to countries and ensure there is no contact with the public. If the rules are not followed, we will force them to leave Japan.”

 

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