Japan's newly-elected Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, speaking in English, threw his whole-hearted support behind the campaign to bring the Games back to Tokyo for the first time since 1964.

He said: "Tokyo is well positioned to serve as a future model of public safety and environmental sustainability.
 

"In Tokyo everyone will witness human endeavour thriving in harmony with nature.

"Tokyo will show the world how a great metropolis can host an Olympics without harming the environment.
 

"That's why I announced to the UN General Assembly that I wanted to reduce greenhouse emissions by 25 per cent, which is ambitious.
 

"Tokyo will provide a Games which assures personal security and environmental stability.
 

"It will show a harmony between humanity and nature."
 

Tokyo were given a tough act to follow, after United States President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama had both spoken on behalf of Chicago.
 

In a marked change of tone, the Tokyo bid talked up the significance of the venue for Friday's presentations and vote: the same Bella Convention Centre that will host the United Nations climate change conference from December 7 to 18 later this year.
 

Tokyo Governor Shintaro Ishihara (pictured) said: "It is symbolic you choose the same venue as the UN climate change conference.

"The outcome today could be as significant as theirs."
 

Ishihara had sounded a warning earlier in the week that the 2016 Olympics could be the last Games because of global warming.
 

That theme was immediately taken up as Tokyo began their presentation with a speech from young gymnast Resa Mishina, who said she represented future Olympians.
 

She said: "There are worries there won't be many people who want to play sport, or many places to play it.
 

"That's why your decision is so important.

"Please choose a city that demonstrates a commitment to our future."
 

Tokyo tried to allay concerns that a relative lack of public support and passion could count against them.

They countered that with a series of dynamic speeches in English and French.