IAEA Leader Commends China for Decisive, Constructive Approach to Fukushima
The director of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) expressed support on Friday for the agreement reached between China and Japan concerning the release of nuclear-contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station into the ocean, praising China for its "constructive approach" in facilitating this development.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi highlighted China’s "decisive role" in the recent advancements regarding this issue.
The Japanese government commenced the controversial discharge of the contaminated water into the ocean on August 24, 2023.
As a significant affected party, China has consistently objected to Japan's action, advocating for Japan to seriously consider both domestic and international concerns. China has been vocal in demanding that Japan honor its responsibilities, contribute to setting up an independent and thorough long-term international monitoring system, and allow involved parties to have a meaningful involvement.
It was also made public earlier on Friday that China and Japan have engaged in several discussions on this matter.
The bilateral agreement stipulates Japan's commitment to establishing a long-term monitoring framework within the IAEA. This will monitor various stages of the discharge process and includes provisions allowing China and other parties to have substantial input. These countries will also have the opportunity for independent sampling, monitoring, and comparisons between laboratories.
In his statement released on the same day, Grossi mentioned that the IAEA will collaborate with Japan and other stakeholders, including China, to guarantee effective implementation of added safeguards. He emphasized the necessity of preserving the integrity of the process through complete transparency.
Moreover, Grossi noted that the IAEA will serve as a "bridge" to aid the enactment of the agreement between China and Japan, and he commended China for its significant advancements in nuclear energy and technology.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of China joining the IAEA. Grossi emphasized the "very important" relationship and extensive cooperation between the IAEA and China, expressing anticipation for further collaboration in the future.
For more information, you can refer to the article titled "Japan agrees to China's independent monitoring of Fukushima wastewater."
Aarav Patel for TROIB News