Japanese PM expresses regrets for recent nuclear crisis and pledges to “bolster nuclear safety and international trust”; Australian PM pays visit to tsunami-hit area during her visit to Japan;
  • Share
  • Tweet
  • Email
  • Whatsapp
  • Linkedin
  • Print

    • In a recent article written by Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan, which was published by several newspapers worldwide, Kan has offered deep regret about the recent nuclear crisis in Fukushima and pledged to “bolster nuclear safety and international trust.” While reiterating that he is to give top priority in bringing the situation in Fukushima No. 1 power plant under control, Kan also vowed to make efforts in addressing recent challenges, such as, the leaks of radioactive water into the ocean. Kan has also assured that while combating the challenges posed by the crippled nuclear plant, the Japanese government would maintain transparency.1

    However, during her four-day visit to Japan that started on April 20, Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard paid visit to a coastal town in the Tohoku region that was hit by March 11 earthquake and tsunami. She was the first foreign leader to visit the disaster-hit area. During her visit, Gillard has assured Japan that Australia would provide a steady supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and mineral resources through “commercial market mechanisms”.2 She further promised that within the next few years, just like coal and iron ore, in LNG sector too, Australia would emerge as the most important supplier to Japan. Nevertheless, Gerald made it clear that Australia would continue its legal action against Japan’s whaling activities in Antarctic waters. She however, warned the whale conservation group-Sea Shepherd- against involving in dangerous protest activities.3

    Meanwhile, with the aim of clearing debris from stations and railway tracks following the devastation brought on by the recent earthquake and tsunami in the Miyagi Prefecture, the Japanese SDF and the US army, on April 21, launched a project named “Operation Soul Train”. While commenting on the issue, Col. Alan Neyland, who leads the operation, stated that the project would bring together US and Japanese soul in restoring the railway tracks in Miyagi prefecture.4

    In other developments, following the outbreak of the nuclear fiasco at Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO)’s plant in Fukushima, the company has decided to postpone the planned start of other two nuclear reactors at its Higashidori nuclear power plant in Aomori Prefecture. It is worth noting that TEPCO initially planned to start its operation of the No. 1 and No. 2 reactors in Higashidori from 2017 and 2020 respectively. However, at present, the company has also revealed its intention to review the design of the reactors.5

    Top