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On February 19, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe made a congratulatory telephone call to speed skater Ms. Nao Kodaira, who won the gold medal in women’s 500-meter speed skating at the PyeongChang Olympic Games.

In his congratulatory telephone call, the Prime Minister said,

“Congratulations, Ms. Kodaira. I was watching at home the whole time yesterday. You skated boldly and magnificently. It was moving to see that the efforts you have put in over the past four years have paid off.”

“You have won the first gold medal for Japan in women’s speed skating, and as the captain of the Japanese team. It is a truly encouraging feat for everyone. I have my hopes up that Japan will win even more medals at the Games.  After the race finished, you were talking to speed  skater Lee Sang-hwa. What were you both talking about?”

“It was truly wonderful to see the two of you hugging and congratulating each other after the race. In the past four years you must have had various experiences, and you have also received support from many people. Please take care of yourself and continue to do your best going forward.”

“Once again, my heartfelt congratulations to you.”