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A few days after the Olympics began in Tokyo, Japan’s Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga sat for a wide-ranging Zoom interview with Newsweek Global Editor in Chief Nancy Cooper and Chief Washington Correspondent Bill Powell. Some excerpts:

On widespread Japanese opposition to holding the Games in the midst of the pandemic:

There have been issues prior to the Games, but after the Olympics have started, many Japanese citizens have been very impressed and inspired by the power of sport with the great performances demonstrated by the athletes.

Many people are viewing the Games and cheering the athletes on TV, and we’re not hearing so many voices of opposition.

On Japan’s economic policy priorities going forward:

Ever since I assumed the office of prime minister, deregulation has been one of my highest priorities. We must advance deregulation, tearing down vested interests so that we can make a breakthrough to the next stage of growth.