The Emperor is concerned that the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, of which he is the honorary patron, may accelerate the spread of the novel coronavirus, the head of the Imperial Household Agency speculated on Thursday.
"I guess [the Emperor] is concerned that holding [the Games], while concern is mounting among the people, may lead to the expansion of the infection," said Yasuhiko Nishimura, grand steward of the agency, at a regular press conference Thursday.
Nishimura went on to say, "I feel it in my bones" while speaking with the Emperor on the daily basis. "I have never heard His Majesty say such words directly," he added.
He then urged the organizing committee and other related organizations to work together to take all possible measures to prevent the spread of the virus at the Games.
The Emperor will attend the opening ceremonies of the Olympics as well as the Paralympics to declare the beginning of the Games. He is also considering attending competitions.
Read more from The Japan News at https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/
