For the Tokyo Paralympics, which will start on the 24th of this month, a fire collection ceremony was held in Tokyo on the night of the 20th to collect the torch fires from more than 880 locations nationwide and the United Kingdom, which originated in the Paralympics.

From the 12th of this month, the Tokyo Paralympic torch has been lit at more than 880 locations nationwide in a way that makes the most of the characteristics of the region, and torch relays and ignition ceremonies are being held in the four prefectures where the competition is held.



On the 20th, a fire-collecting ceremony was held at the guesthouse Akasaka Palace in Minato-ku, Tokyo, and was attended by Prime Minister Suga, Governor Koike, and Chairman Parsons of the IPC = International Paralympic Committee. ..

Among them, Chairman Hashimoto of the Organizing Committee said, "The Games will be a great opportunity to realize diversity and harmony. While deeply carving the connections and bonds between people, this torch will be a national competition on August 24th. I hope it will reach the venue. "



After that, the fires from 47 prefectures lined up on the stage, and when they became light by virtual technology and climbed into the sky, they were united on the light of the fire from England, which was the origin of the Paralympics, and the guesthouse. rice field.



Then, the light came down to the torch of actress Satomi Ishihara, who is the official ambassador of the torch relay, and the fire was transferred to the torch plate.



The torch will be lit by the torch stand at the opening ceremony on the 24th, with ignition ceremonies continuing in various parts of Tokyo after the 21st.

Prime Minister Suga "Thorough infection control and prepare the best stage"

Prime Minister Suga attended the fire gathering ceremony and said, "The appearance of top-class para-athletes who have overcome big barriers through endless efforts and challenges must bring dreams, excitement, and courage to the people of the world. Especially for children and young people, it will be a unique opportunity to remember the importance of striving and challenging. "



On top of that, "It will be the best opportunity for people with and without disabilities, elderly people and young people to aim for a symbiotic society where they can help each other and live together, and to strongly convey the barrier-free spirit of their hearts to the world. In order to realize this, we will thoroughly implement infection control measures and prepare the best stage for athletes to play an active role with peace of mind. "