Japanese and Chinese Experts Discuss Treated Wastewater from Fukushima Nuclear Plant
Japanese and Chinese experts recently engaged in talks regarding the treated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant. This marks the first official dialogue between the two countries since Japan started releasing the water into the ocean last year.
Background
Following the 2011 meltdown at the Fukushima plant, wastewater was used to cool the reactors. Japan maintained that the water had been properly treated, while China expressed concerns over the discharge and imposed a ban on Japanese seafood imports.
Expert Dialogue
The dialogue between Japanese and Chinese experts took place in Dalian, China on March 30. The purpose of the meeting was to exchange views on technical aspects related to the discharge of treated water into the ocean.
Diplomatic Implications
Japan’s decision to gradually release a portion of the 1.34 million tons of accumulated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean since August has led to diplomatic tensions with China and Russia, both of which have implemented seafood import bans.
International Perspective
While China has criticized Japan for its actions, Japan asserts that the discharge is safe, a stance supported by the UN atomic agency. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has emphasized the importance of science-based discussions and called for an objective evaluation of Japan’s seafood safety.
Reasons for Wastewater Release
Japan initiated the release of treated wastewater due to space constraints for additional water tanks at the nuclear facility. This step was necessary to accommodate the removal of radioactive fuel and debris from the affected reactors.