The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, on Friday praised China for its decisive and constructive approach in reaching an agreement with Japan regarding the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station into the ocean.
Speaking about the recent progress, Grossi highlighted China\u0027s “decisive role” in facilitating the agreement, stating that China\u0027s involvement was pivotal in achieving the positive developments. “China has played a constructive approach in the latest positive developments,” Grossi said.
On August 24, 2023, Japan unilaterally began releasing nuclear-contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station into the ocean. This move was met with firm opposition from China, a key stakeholder, which urged Japan to seriously address the concerns of the international community and its own citizens.
China called on Japan to fulfill its international obligations by cooperating fully in establishing an independent and effective long-term international monitoring arrangement. The aim is to ensure that all stakeholders can participate meaningfully in the monitoring process.
Following multiple rounds of consultations between the competent authorities of China and Japan, an agreement was reached that includes Japan\u0027s commitment to the establishment of a long-term international monitoring arrangement within the IAEA framework. This arrangement will cover key stages of the discharge process and provide for substantive participation by China and other stakeholders. Participating countries will also be able to conduct independent sampling, monitoring, and inter-laboratory comparisons.
In a statement released on the same day, Grossi emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the process through full transparency. He stated that the IAEA will coordinate with Japan and other stakeholders, including China, to ensure the proper implementation of additional measures. “The IAEA will act as a bridge to facilitate the implementation of the China-Japan agreement,” Grossi said.
Grossi also praised China\u0027s “impressive” progress in developing nuclear energy and technologies. This year marks the 40th anniversary of China\u0027s accession to the IAEA, a milestone that underscores the deep cooperation and important relationship between China and the Agency. Grossi expressed his anticipation for even closer collaboration in the future.
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IAEA chief praises China for decisive, constructive Fukushima approach
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