Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has expressed confidence in the country's ability to contain the spread of the new coronavirus, adding that there is no need to declare a state of emergency at the moment.
Abe made the remarks at a press conference on Saturday, a day after the Diet passed a bill giving the prime minister the power to declare a state of emergency.
Abe noted that the number of infections in Japan is lower compared with other countries.
He praised Japan for successfully containing the spread of the virus and helping 40 percent of patients recover.
Japan has recorded over 1,400 confirmed cases so far, including those from the Princess Diamond cruise ship. Twenty-eight people have died so far.
The prime minister also said preparation work is underway for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, which will open as scheduled on July 24. He said he will personally be in Fukushima Prefecture to welcome the arrival of the Olympic Flame on the Japanese soil on March 26.
He said Japan has been working closely with relevant parties, including the International Olympic Committee, to take necessary measures to ensure the Games are held successfully and safely.
In response to a question about U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting the Games be postponed for a year, Abe said there was no discussion about cancellation or postponement during their phone talks on Friday.
