A delegation from the National Olympic Committee visited the Japanese Consulate General in Dubai to review the latest preparations for the Tokyo Olympics.

The delegation, which comprised of Her Excellency Eng. Azzah bint Suleiman NOC Board Member, and Ahmed Al Tayeb Director of Technical and Sports Affairs, received Tokyo Games mascot, a cartoon with pointy ears and chequered patterns known as MIRAITOWA originating from the Japanese words "mirai" meaning “future”, and "towa", meaning “eternity”.

Thubian Al Muahiri, Secretary-General of the National Paralympic Committee, also received the Paralympic Games mascot; a pink cherry blossom-inspired cartoon known as Someity. Its name is derived from the popular cherry tree variety “Someiyoshino” and the English phrase “so mighty”.

The two parties discussed the latest development of the biggest global sporting event that brings together thousands of athletes in numerous games. Discussions covered the registration, arrival and departure of sports delegations, security and logistics, and facilities provided by the Organizing Committee during the Games. At the end of the meeting, Eng. Azzah presented the NOC trophy to the Japanese Consul in recognition of his country’s efforts and preparations for the Olympic Games.

It is noteworthy that about five million students selected the two mascots, and organisers of Tokyo Olympics 2000 created cool characters for the Games. Both selections reflect super powers and ability to juggle between the reality and the digital world.