7. In conclusion

The bright lights in the hearts of the each person, namely, hopes and dreams, are what push them forward. I am sure of this. The restoration of Tokyo about a century ago following the Great Kanto Earthquake was made possible because people’s hearts were stirred by the grand design for the future that was envisioned by Goto Shinpei. In addition, it was none other than the efforts of our predecessors who held dreams for a prosperous state that transformed Japan into an economic powerhouse after the war. Since we are currently up against major crises, I believe that it is now the time to shift the mindset of our citizens from low spirits to a more positive direction. By swiftly implementing policies to set Tokyo on the path to growth, I wish to implant hope in each of their hearts that “Tokyo will become even better” and “Japan will also become even better.”

We are now truly standing at the entrance to a bright future. We, here today, and each and every Tokyo resident are the key players. Let’s together push forward with the grand reform of Tokyo, a transformational, or should I say, innovative change of the metropolitan government, and forge the path to a new age.

Including the matters to which I have already referred, a total of 32 bills, including 1 budget bill and 16 ordinance bills, have been presented to this regular session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly for deliberation among the Assembly members.

This concludes my speech to the Assembly. Thank you.