SEOUL (Reuters) – The plan by Japan to release treated radioactive water from its Fukushima nuclear plant has gained significant attention in the region, according to Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Grossi stated that it is “absolutely logical” for the plan to generate concerns, but also highlighted that a recent review by the IAEA found it to be in line with international safety standards, as long as it is executed properly.
Grossi’s remarks came after his meeting with members of South Korea’s political opposition party on Sunday, where they expressed strong public concerns about Japan’s plan and criticized the IAEA’s findings. The visit to South Korea was met with angry protests from civic groups, drawing street rallies on Saturday to voice their opposition to the plan.
Despite the public uproar, the South Korean government has stated that it respects the IAEA’s report and has conducted its own analysis, which concluded that the release of the water will not have any significant impact on its waters. However, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin voiced his criticism of the plan on Wednesday and threatened action if Japan proceeds with the discharge.
Reporting by Jack Kim; Editing by Kim Coghill
The release of treated radioactive water from Japan’s Fukushima nuclear plant is causing concern in the region, stated Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). In a recent review by the IAEA, it was concluded that Japan’s plan aligns with international safety standards if executed correctly. However, during Grossi’s meeting with South Korea’s political opposition party, they expressed their public concerns about the plan and criticized the IAEA’s findings.
The visit of Grossi to South Korea faced opposition from civic groups, with angry protests and street rallies held to voice their disapproval of Japan’s plan. Despite this, the South Korean government has shown respect for the IAEA’s report and conducted its analysis, concluding that the water release will not have a significant impact on the country’s waters. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin expressed his criticism and threatened action if Japan proceeds with the discharge.
Overall, the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant has sparked controversy and concern throughout the region. While the IAEA believes it conforms to safety standards, South Korea’s political opposition and civic groups continue to voice their fears and opposition to Japan’s plan. It remains to be seen how this issue will be resolved and what actions will be taken by the involved parties.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
