G20 Osaka Summit Countdown Board Unveiled

#Social issue#Media/Contents#International Conference#Summit

On March 20, with 100 days remaining until the G20 Osaka Summit (June 28-29, INTEX Osaka), the first G20 (Group of Twenty) summit to be held in Japan, the "2019 G20 Osaka Summit Kansai Promotion and Cooperation Council" – involving Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, the Kansai Regional Federation, and the business community – held a countdown board unveiling ceremony at Osaka City Hall.

The G20 Summit will be attended by the leaders of the 20 member countries, as well as representatives from international organizations.

Takeshi Akahori, Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' G20 Summit Secretariat, stated, "As the host country, we aim to strongly lead discussions on the global economy. With the world's eyes on Osaka, this is an excellent opportunity. We want to effectively showcase Osaka, Kansai, and Japan's traditions, cutting-edge capabilities, and appeal, working together with the people of Osaka."

Idol group Kanjani∞ members Yutaka Yokoyama and Shingo Murakami, who serve as Osaka's tourism symbol characters, attended the unveiling ceremony as guests. Yokoyama expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "I'm honored to participate in such a global event and will do my best as a character." Murakami commented, "It's a great honor to be involved. I will cooperate wholeheartedly, even if my contribution is small."

On stage, the unveiling ceremony proceeded with the addition of the council's Secretary General Shinji Yoshida, Osaka City Deputy Mayor Kiyotaka Tanaka, and Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau Chairman Hiroshi Mizohata. A countdown board displaying "100 Days Until Opening" was revealed. Yokoyama and Murakami each signed the board.

When asked, "What if you end up attending the conference?", Murakami responded with a hint of confusion, "Is that your first question...?" He continued, "I can't imagine it, but since it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, I'd like to get everyone to learn a simple dance routine. We could show it to people from all over the world to help things run smoothly. Let's work on scheduling!" Yokoyama, who stated "I've studied like crazy," smoothly introduced the summit's outline, adding, "Since it's being held in Osaka, it's been a great opportunity to learn. If young people take an interest through this, I think Osaka will become even more fun."

Secretary General Akahori appealed to Osaka citizens: "Thanks to your support, the publicity effect is tremendous. During the summit, journalists and delegates will be out and about in the city. If you see them, please welcome them warmly and show them the best of Osaka." Secretary General Yoshida stated, "We want the world to know that Japan has Osaka and Kansai. We hope this summit will energize Osaka and Kansai even more."

Chairman Mizohata smiled and remarked, "Mr. Yokoyama and Mr. Murakami have studied Osaka so thoroughly, their dedication is impressive. I might even hand over the chairmanship of the Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau to them." He continued, "Osaka's charm lies in the inclusiveness, vitality, and diversity of each individual. I hope they express this mentality, communication, smiles, and hospitality to the world."

Deputy Mayor Tanaka expressed his determination: "Osaka will host a series of globally watched events from now on, so we must first ensure the summit's success. To achieve this, we want to showcase Osaka's urban strength, history, culture, technology, industry, and delicious food."

The countdown board will be displayed in the main entrance hall on the first floor of Osaka City Hall until June 29.

G20 Official Website: https://g20.org/jp/

G20 Osaka Summit Countdown Board Unveiled

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