China has called on Japan to cancel its ocean discharge plan.

It followed Japan’s earlier announcement to discharge of nuclear treated water from its Fukushima treatment plant today.

“I asked Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) to swiftly prepare for the water discharge in accordance with the plan approved by the Nuclear Regulation Authority, and expect the water release to start on August 24, weather conditions permitting,” Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said in a press conference.

“I was briefed by the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) on how safety was being assured.

“The release of ALPS-treated water into the ocean is an effort that will span quite some time.

“I urge TEPCO to come together as a company and take every precaution while maintaining a high sense of vigilance. T

“The Government will do its utmost to ensure safety, provide highly-transparent information, and prevent and counter reputational damage,” he said

China’s Foreign Affairs spokesperson Weng Wenbin said the decision by Japan was selfish and irresponsible.

“For the past two years and more, the legitimacy, legality and safety of Japan’s ocean discharge plan has been questioned over and over again by the international community,” Mr Weng said.

“Japan has yet to address major international concerns such as the long-term reliability of the purification facility, the authenticity and accuracy of the nuclear-contaminated water data, and the effectiveness of the monitoring arrangement,” he said.

“The ocean sustains humanity.

“It is not a sewer for Japan’s nuclear-contaminated water.

“China strongly urges Japan to stop its wrongdoing, cancel the ocean discharge plan, communicate with neighbouring countries with sincerity and good will, dispose of the nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner, and accept rigorous international oversight.”

He said China would take all steps necessary to protect the marine environment, ensure food safety and safeguard people’s life and health.

Feedback: inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj