All broadcasters reported that President Trump and Prime Minister Abe spoke by phone for about 40 minutes this morning following the decision to postpone the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics. The networks said PM Abe explained to the President that he agreed with IOC President Bach to postpone the Tokyo Games for about a year so that athletes around the world can compete in their best condition. According to NHK, the President welcomed the decision by saying that it was a “very wise and wonderful” decision and that he supported everything Abe said. The network added that the two leaders also agreed to work closely to hold the Tokyo Games next year “in their complete form” to prove that humankind has been able to overcome the new virus. The two leaders also reportedly agreed to continue to share information and cooperate in the development of drugs for the new virus.

NHK reported that Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga told the press that it was “very meaningful” that the two leaders were able to confirm cooperation by holding teleconferences twice over the past two weeks at a time when the international community needs to unite.