5. Closing remarks

Communicating closely with the Assembly

So far, I spoke about my vision for Tokyo, centering on my policies. Needless to say, however, in politics, it is the result that matters. High ideals and eloquent words ring hollow if they cannot be brought to reality.

The governor and Assembly both represent the people of Tokyo. It is essential for both of us to communicate closely with each other in order to move forward the operations of the metropolitan government, realize policies that lead to the better lives of Tokyo citizens, and make Tokyo the world’s best city. With this firmly etched in my mind, I will steer the affairs of the metropolitan government through productive discussions with you. I would like to request the full cooperation of the Assembly.

Energizing Tokyo and bringing vitality to the entire country

At the 2014 Olympic Winter Games in Sochi, Japanese athletes accomplished great achievements, garnering a total of eight medals: four silvers, three bronzes and the gold won by figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu. For Team Japan, this is the best-ever medal tally at a Winter Games held overseas. I hope to see the brilliant performance of Japanese athletes at the upcoming Paralympic Games as well. When we see Japanese players compete to their fullest potential on the international stage, we are moved and encouraged, and this boosts our spirits.

This is true for government as well. Implementing good policies brightens up people and makes them more enthusiastic about their jobs, enabling them to make bigger achievements and thus further motivating them. This leads to the greater vitality of the entire country. A bright future cannot be found without hope. This is the reason why I aim to make Tokyo the world’s best city.

One major question posed in the gubernatorial election was what is required of a political leader. As Max Weber put it, “Politics is a strong and slow boring of hard boards. It takes both passion and perspective.” I think this perfectly describes what politics is. While serving as minister of health, labour and welfare, I dealt with such tough issues as the pension record-keeping problem and hepatitis C infection due to contaminated blood and blood products. From that experience, I understand that it is not eye-catching gestures or theatrical approaches that can move things forward in politics or government administration.

In order to meet the enormous expectations of the residents of Tokyo, I am open to any opinions, willing to listen to even the smallest voices from the public. Drawing on the abilities of the 165,000 metropolitan government employees, no matter what difficulties lie ahead, I will take steady steps forward. And I will leave it up to the verdict of history to evaluate my achievements. I believe only those who have the courage to face this verdict can bring a bright future and true happiness to the people of Tokyo and across Japan.

If Tokyo changes, so too will Japan. With this conviction in mind, I will dedicate my energies to fulfilling my mission as the governor of Tokyo. Once again, I sincerely ask for your cooperation and support.

Including the matters to which I have already referred, a total of 131 proposals have been presented to this regular session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly, including 32 budget proposals and 89 proposed ordinances, to be deliberated among the Assembly members.

This concludes my policy address to the Assembly. Thank you