TOKYO -- The Japanese government will lift the COVID state of emergency covering Tokyo and 18 other prefectures on Thursday, prompted by progress in vaccinations and a decline in new infections.
The government is expected to make a formal announcement on Tuesday following discussions with an expert panel. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga told reporters on Monday: "The number of new infections has declined significantly." However, he added that restrictions on restaurants will need to be eased "gradually while maintaining a high level of caution."
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