Tokyo 2016 Gets Government And Business Support

Japan's House of Representatives passed a major resolution of support Tuesday and Japan's business community - reportedly a major partner of the Olympic Movement for more than 50 years - has also thrown its weight behind the bid.

According to a press release a specific committee has been established by the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry and its 80,000 member companies.

Shintaro Ishihara, Governor of Tokyo said, "in today's plenary session Japan's House of Representatives passed a resolution to strongly promote the Tokyo 2016 bid and ensure all necessary preparations for the bid are fully guaranteed. I am very encouraged by the Parliament's support for our bid as we move into our highest gear prior to the gathering of international sport federations at SportAccord 2009, which will be staged in Denver, USA from 23 March.

"By working closely with business, the sporting and Olympic world, local government and indeed the entire nation, our unified all-out efforts to realize the dream of hosting the greatest Olympic and Paralympic Games ever will be a reality".

Dr. Ichiro Kono, Chair and CEO of Tokyo 2016 added, "the House of Representatives backing for Tokyo 2016's bid to set the stage for heroes is validation of the strong support we have from across Japanese society and the total security Tokyo 2016 offers the Olympic Movement at this difficult economic time. The passionate support is giving Tokyo 2016 ever increasing momentum as we approach the final months of our bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games at the heart of our vibrant capital city".