8. In conclusion

Recently, Japan successfully launched a new flagship H3 rocket after overcoming various difficulties. Space exploration is truly a field that tests a country’s technological capabilities. Notably, last month, Japan’s SLIM spacecraft made a precision landing on the moon’s surface some 380,000 kilometers away from Earth, succeeding in a mission that no country had ever achieved before. The manufacturing industry in Tokyo has also contributed to this globally acclaimed project, which put to use Tokyo’s prized technological prowess, including Tokyo Metropolitan University’s research in fields such as space engineering and metallurgy; the designs of a toy manufacturer, which may be thought of as unrelated to space exploration; as well as a mechanical component produced by an SME that previously received a business design award from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. These technologies and wisdom, which have been refined across many years, have transcended the boundaries of industry and combined together to achieve a historic feat.

Tokyo is home to countless seeds of hope: people, knowledge, technology, industry, lush nature, and history and culture from the Edo period. We will protect what we should protect, and change what we should change. Outdated systems and rules stand in our path. By breaking through these “invisible walls” and changing people’s mindsets and ways of living, we will coax Tokyo’s seeds of hope into full bloom. It is precisely new ideas, the pursuit of dreams, and the innovation that is generated as a result that will serve as the wellsprings of dynamism to pave the way for a new era.

Putting the citizens of Tokyo first means ensuring that everything we do is for the sake of our residents. With full determination, we will push forward with the Grand Reform of Tokyo to realize a bright and sustainable future Tokyo. We would appreciate the understanding and cooperation of all Assembly members and Tokyo citizens.

Including the matters to which I have already referred, a total of 148 bills, including 36 budget bills and 93 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.