Bach, IOC President: "Tokyo Olympics Will Be Safe... Willing to Dispatch Medical Staff"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Seon-ae] Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), expressed his willingness to dispatch medical personnel to Japan ahead of the Tokyo Summer Olympics opening.

President Bach stated at the online coordination committee meeting between the IOC and the Tokyo Olympic Organizing Committee held on the 19th, "We have conveyed to the organizing committee our intention to send medical staff to respond to COVID-19 at the Olympic Village and competition venues."

In a speech lasting about 12 minutes that day, Bach emphasized, "Although I cannot disclose specific details yet, it is clear that the Olympic Village will be a safe place and that the Olympics and Paralympics will be held very safely."

He added, "More than 80% of all people staying in the Village will be vaccinated," and expressed optimism about the successful hosting of the Tokyo Olympics, saying, "Many sports events are being held safely despite the global COVID-19 pandemic, and there were no major issues during the Tokyo Olympics test events."

However, the Associated Press (AP) reported, "The Japanese team is expected to begin vaccinations in June, and only 1 to 2% of the entire Japanese population has been vaccinated," pointing out that "even the elderly population is unlikely to complete vaccination before early August, when the Olympics end."

The AP also reported that the Japan National Doctors' Union has demanded the government cancel the Tokyo Olympics, arguing that "cancelling the Olympics is the right choice."

The organization warned, "Since viruses spread when people move, the Olympics could increase infections and deaths," and cautioned, "If the situation worsens due to the Olympics and Paralympics, Japan will bear greater responsibility."

AP further noted that "the state of emergency in Tokyo, Osaka, and other areas in Japan has been extended until the end of this month," and pointed out that "President Bach's plan to visit Japan has also been canceled," highlighting the unfavorable situation within Japan.

The outlet forecasted, "Foreign fans are banned from attending the Tokyo Olympics, and the decision on whether Japanese spectators will be allowed into venues will be made in June," adding that "tens of thousands, including 15,000 athletes, are expected to enter Japan to participate in the Olympics and Paralympics."

The coordination committee, which inspects the preparation status by the IOC and the organizing committee, will continue for three days from the 19th to the 21st, and this 11th coordination committee meeting is the last one before the Tokyo Olympics opening on July 23.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.