But Abe said a review of the situation would be conducted in about two weeks, and the measures could be lifted before the end of the month if new infections slow sufficiently.

And he implied that there would be no further extension of the emergency, saying May would be when the country "presses towards the exit".

"I must be candid and ask you to continue your efforts for some time," Abe said at a press conference after announcing the extension.

Copyright Agence France-Presse, 2020