Kobe City: New Year’s Greetings for 2024

　I would like to extend my best wishes for the new year.

　In the year 2023, the new type of coronavirus was changed from category 2 to category 5 under the Infectious Disease Control Law, and we are on the verge of returning to daily life. We were able to overcome this crisis thanks to the dedication of all healthcare professionals and the cooperation of many others. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude.
　On the other hand, issues that existed before the emergence of the virus, such as the declining birthrate, the aging population, and the concentration of people in Tokyo, continue to exist, and policy development in an era of declining population is required.
　In Kobe City, we are working to reduce the population decline by providing seamless support for child-raising, creating attractive industries such as start-up policies and attracting companies, improving the quality of life by renovating the areas around suburban stations, and improving the quality of life in the city center, Sannomiya and the waterfront area, in order to remain an attractive city for the younger generation. The city is strongly promoting measures to create extraordinary and exciting urban spaces, such as the redevelopment of the Sannomiya Waterfront in the city center.
　We are working to create a warm and relaxing city where each and every citizen can experience happiness, and are boldly taking on the challenge of becoming a “Global Contribution City nurtured by the sea and mountains”.

　On May 17 this year, Kobe will host the World Para Athletics Championships, the first such event to be held in East Asia. We will continue our efforts to make the championships an opportunity to deepen understanding of disabilities and diversity, and to create a society in which people can live together in harmony. We ask for the broad cooperation of citizens in the form of volunteers and publicity for the Games, and hope that you will join us in making the Games a success.
　In 2025, the Osaka-Kansai International Expo will be held and international charter flights will begin operating from Kobe Airport. We will promote efforts to further enhance Kobe’s value as an international city by promoting the creation of tourism and business demand, which will have a ripple effect on the city’s economy.

　Kobe City is currently in the process of formulating a new Comprehensive Basic Plan, which will outline the city’s vision and direction for the future. We would like to ask for your opinions on the future of Kobe, and would appreciate your understanding and cooperation with the Kobe City Government.

I hope that this year will be a wonderful one for all of you.

January 1, 2024