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On April 21, 2020, the Prime Minister spoke to the press at the Prime Minister’s Office.

The Prime Minister commented on the passing of two weeks since the declaration of a state of emergency as follows:

“I first wish to express my sincere gratitude for the enormous efforts made by the people after the declaration of a state of emergency. People have been patient with not being able to go outside as they wish, even on holidays. This is a significant burden on them. I would like to reiterate my appreciation for their cooperation.

Citizens are cooperating with reducing people to people contact at least by 70%, ideally by 80%. In some areas, efforts are not yet sufficient. I ask for further cooperation, such as doing more teleworking.

Since last week, we have expanded the state of emergency nationwide. Literally all prefectures are extending cooperation to this endeavor. Nevertheless, I heard that there were considerable flows of people from Tokyo to other regions last weekend. As the Golden Week holiday period is arriving soon, I ask people to refrain from traveling to other regions, even if it is just among family members. Taking any trips increases risks of the spread of infections throughout the country.

The total cumulative number of patients has already reached 10,000. Medical systems are being severely stretched. I call upon each citizen to refrain from going outside, for the sake of reducing the burdens of healthcare workers as much as possible, and for the sake of protecting your own health and life. I ask for further cooperation towards reducing people to people contact at least by 70%, ideally by 80%.”