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[Provisional Translation]

 

On July 31, 2020, the Prime Minister spoke to the press at the Prime Minister’s Office.

 

Regarding the increasing number of new cases of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infections, the Prime Minister said,

 

"We are closely monitoring the epidemiological situation with a sense of urgency. First and foremost, we must conduct extensive testing. We will promote the early detection and early treatment of those who are infected. It is also necessary to prevent symptoms from deteriorating. We will make every possible effort to prevent infections among those who have a high risk of developing severe symptoms, such as patients with underlying conditions and the elderly. To this end, we will thoroughly conduct screening at hospitals and other facilities. Moreover, the government will make efforts to develop therapeutic medicine and vaccines, undertaking its responsibility. As we heard from the experts today, we will to implement the necessary measures, fully collaborating with local governments."

 

In addition, regarding the convocation of the Diet being requested by the opposition parties, the Prime Minister said,

 

"While the ordinary session of the Diet was closed last month, we have been engaging in deliberations at the Diet almost every week. I understand that timely discussions took place on various issues such as the response to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and response to the heavy rain. With respect to an extraordinary session of the Diet, we will consult closely with the ruling parties and respond to the request, reviewing those issues."