14 May 2023 | 04:22 AM UTC
Japan: Authorities to implement tight security for G7 summit in Hiroshima city May 19-21
Japan to host G7 summit in Hiroshima city, May 19-21. Heightened security and air and road transport disruptions certain.
Event
Extremely tight security is certain in the lead-up to, during, and immediately after the G7 summit at Hiroshima City's Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima May 19-21. The heads of state from 15 countries and the EU, UN, and World Bank (WB) leaders are scheduled to attend the summit. Guests may also visit the Peace Memorial Park and Itsukushima Shrine in Hatsukaichi. Heightened security measures and traffic restrictions will mainly affect event venues, Hiroshima Airport (HIJ), and hotels and routes used by delegates.
There have not been any publicized threats to the summit; however, security forces may randomly search pedestrians and vehicles as a precautionary measure, particularly after recent domestic security incidents targeting the incumbent and former prime ministers. Officials will also restrict entry and implement maritime patrols around Ujina Island, where the Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima is located. Police will implement road closures and traffic detours May 18-22 to facilitate the summit.
Officials will restrict the use of HIJ May 17-23, prioritizing it for G7-related events. Nongovernmental flights with pre-approval may use the airport outside 08:30-17:00. Increased security is also probable May 17-24 at Osaka's Kansai International Airport (KIX), where authorities could divert some chartered flights to. Heightened security at KIX may lead to customs and security screening delays and congestion.
Protests are possible in the lead-up to and during the summit. Potential gathering sites include event venues and locations that foreign guests may visit. However, significant disruptions or violence is unlikely, as demonstrations are likely to remain small and controlled quickly by security forces.
Advice
Exercise caution around event venues due to increased security protocols. Avoid all demonstrations as a standard security precaution. Allow additional travel time in Hiroshima May 19-21. Confirm flights, especially at HIJ and KIX May 17-24; do not check out of accommodation without confirming onward travel. Carry proper identification documents. Remain cooperative if stopped by officials for checks. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
