Olympics: Some events could take place in Fukushima

October 20, 2016

Bach: Events could be held in northeast Japan

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20161019_29/

The head of the International Olympic Committee has suggested holding some events of the 2020 Tokyo Games in areas of northeastern Japan that were devastated by the earthquake and tsunami of 2011.

IOC President Thomas Bach, now visiting Japan, met Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo on Wednesday.

Bach told Abe the IOC is thinking of holding some Olympic events in the disaster zone to contribute to revival efforts. He said this could show the world how the areas have recovered. Abe welcomed the idea.

Abe also promised the government's participation in talks to cut costs for the games.

Bach had proposed 4-way talks by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, the IOC, Tokyo 2020 organizers and Japan's government.

Reporters later asked Bach if baseball and softball will be held in Fukushima City. Bach said it's an option under consideration. He added that since the sports are very popular in Japan, having the country's team play in the disaster zone would send a strong message.