The Japanese government is leaning toward the view that it will be difficult to lift the state of emergency for the Tokyo metropolitan area and the Kansai region for the time being. This is in light of the coronavirus infection situation and governors' opinions.
The state of emergency declaration was set to end on Sunday, but it was extended for another month for Tokyo, Osaka and eight other prefectures.
The government is planning to make some changes to its basic response plan according to the revised coronavirus special measures legislation, after hearing from experts on Friday. The legislation takes effect on Saturday.
The government is also considering whether it can lift the state of emergency for some regions.
Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko has said the situation will not allow the declaration to be lifted.
Osaka Governor Yoshimura Hirofumi has indicated that his prefecture will determine next week whether to ask the central government to end the state of emergency.
Some people within the central government say it may be possible to consider lifting the measure for Aichi, Gifu and Fukuoka prefectures, as the number of new cases has been steadily declining in those areas.
But others say a decision should be made carefully after considering the strain on medical systems.
Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide and relevant ministers including Economic Revitalization Minister Nishimura Yasutoshi are expected to assess the infection situation and other factors on Wednesday.
nhk
