Suga vows zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 in 1st policy speech

Suga also expressed his willingness to resume social and economic activities while preventing the resurgence of the novel coronavirus. He stressed that the government will aim to kickstart an economic recovery by appropriately implementing “Go To” stimulus measures, while securing the ability of local medical institutions to conduct an average of 200,000 coronavirus tests a day.

“I intend to take necessary measures without hesitation while paying attention to the impact of the novel coronavirus on the economy and economic trends in Japan and abroad,” Suga said.

The prime minister said his administration will carry on the Abenomics policy package launched by his predecessor Shinzo Abe, declaring that a virtuous cycle between the economy and the environment would be a pillar of his growth strategy.

He also unveiled a plan to create a new forum for national and local discussions to decarbonize society, while at the same time promoting nuclear energy policy to maintain a stable energy supply, with the highest priority on safety.

“I declare that our country will aim to realize a carbon-neutral society by 2050 by reducing greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050,” the prime minister said.

“Measures to cope with global warming no longer restrict the economy,” he added. “We need a shift in thinking that carrying out measures against global warming actively will bring about changes in industrial structures and economic and social systems and result in major growth.”

Suga also mentioned the establishment of a “digital agency” to digitize administrative procedures, insurance coverage for infertility treatment and the reduction of mobile phone fees, all of which are among his key policies.

To make Japan an international financial center, the prime minister announced plans to swiftly study ways to provide administrative services in English and ease visa requirements, among other measures.

“As the Cabinet working for the people, I’ll work to build a new era by realizing reforms,” Suga said.

Meanwhile, Suga called on the ruling and opposition parties to present their proposals for constitutional amendment at both Diet chambers’ commissions on the Constitution and hold constructive discussions. He expressed hopes that such discussions would lead to a national debate.

As for the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics that have been postponed to next summer, Suga expressed his determination to hold the Games safely.

On foreign policy, Suga said the issue of the abduction of Japanese nationals by North Korea will remain at the top of his agenda. He expressed his determination to face Kim Jong Un, the chairman of the Workers’ Party of Korea, directly without attaching any conditions to achieve the return of the abductees.

Suga called South Korea an “extremely important neighboring country.” Toward restoring a strong bilateral relationship, he said his administration will maintain its stance and urge Seoul to make “appropriate responses.”

The extraordinary Diet session is scheduled to last for 41 days through Dec. 5.

The opposition camp is expected to challenge the prime minister over his rejection of six candidates for the Science Council of Japan.