Japan has reiterated its plans to host the Tokyo Olympics in July despite the number of coronavirus cases topping the 1,000 mark.
"We would steadily proceed with our preparations while closely coordinating with the IOC (the International Olympic Committee) and the organising committee," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told the media on Wednesday.
It comes after IOC head Thomas Bach expressed support for the Games, urging athletes to prepare "full steam."
Of the confirmed cases, with five more reported on Wednesday, 706 are from the Diamond Princess cruise ship. The death toll touched 12, with six from the cruise liner.
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