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Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday that ensuring independent sampling and monitoring by China and other interested parties is one of Japan’s commitments regarding the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water from Fukushima. According to relevant departments, Chinese research institutions have completed the testing and analysis of the first independent samples taken by China, and no abnormalities in the radioactive concentration of radionuclides such as tritium, cesium-137, and strontium-90 have been found.
In response to whether the above testing results confirm the safety of the discharge of Fukushima’s nuclear-contaminated water, Mao stated that there is no precedent for such a discharge. Japan’s unilateral decision to initiate the release lacks legitimacy and reasonableness. China’s opposition to the discharge has not changed. In the absence of a binding international mechanism to stop Japan’s discharge, independent sampling and monitoring by stakeholders serve as an effective measure to manage the risks associated with the discharge.
At the same time, it is noted that professional institutions have pointed out that the reference value of a single test result is limited, Mao said. China will continue to work with the international community to urge Japan to fulfill its commitments, ensure that the discharge of Fukushima’s nuclear-contaminated water remains under strict international oversight, and continue independent sampling and monitoring of the seawater.
When asked whether this would lead to the resumption of Japanese seafood imports, Mao stated that the Chinese government has always adhered to the principle of putting the people first and is firmly committed to safeguarding the food safety of the populace.
Regarding the issue of resuming imports of Japanese seafood, Mao pointed out that China has always upheld a scientific approach. The first independent sampling and testing is merely one step in Japan’s fulfillment of its commitments concerning the discharge issue. Whether imports of Japanese seafood can ultimately be resumed will depend on a series of scientific data derived from China’s continued independent sampling and monitoring.
Additionally, Japan must take concrete measures to effectively ensure the quality and safety of seafood exported to China, Mao added.
According to information from the China’s National Nuclear Safety Administration, October 2024 marked China’s first independent sampling of the Fukushima nuclear wastewater release.
As per the workflow of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), specific data will be compiled and released by the IAEA.
Global Times
