US envoy chows down on fresh fish during Fukushima visit

US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel noshed on tuna, flounder and bass and got some more to take home during a visit to Fukushima on Thursday.

He said he had “no reservations” about doing so despite China banning all Japanese seafood imports over Tokyo’s decision to release treated radioactive water from the crippled power plant.

The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant was badly damaged in a 2011 tsunami. Japan argues the plan is both safe and necessary, with the IAEA having already offered its approval.

The US stands firmly with Japan,” Emanuel said, adding: “In a world where truth and trust are paramount, Japan’s … commitment to science and transparency is a leading example.”

Public Criticism From People In South Korea

Earlier this week, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also pulled a similar stunt in order to demonstrate his confidence in Fukushima seafood safety.

Tokyo’s decision to release the decade-old diluted and treated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean over the next 30 to 40 years triggered China’s blanket ban last week.

The Chinese government will take all measures necessary to protect food safety and the health of the people, Chinese officials said in a statement.

The release of the treated radioactive water has also triggered public criticism from people in South Korea and other countries in the region.

Keep Reading

“Negligible Radiological Impact”

The US envoy slammed China’s move in a local op-ed published ahead of the visit, calling out Beijing for “its clandestine efforts to influence other nations to isolate Japan.”

He argued Tokyo has gone to extreme measures in an effort to ensure the controversial release plan met international safety and health standards.

He even highlighted the IAEA’s approval, noting the UN nuclear watchdog concluded the plan would have a “negligible radiological impact” on its surroundings.

Emanuel compared “Japan’s meticulous handling” of the Fukushima water release plan with “China’s approach to public health challenges that have originated in its own backyard.”

AP Journalist

Keeping all readers updated about the recent developments in the Asia Pacific region. I am an avid reader and an inquisitive mind. Follow for all that’s new in the region.

Recent Posts

Rosé & Bruno Mars: APT. Live Debut at MAMA Awards

K-pop star Rosé and Bruno Mars will perform their viral hit APT. live for the first time today at the… Read More

November 22, 2024

“We Will See”: Ronaldo on Playing with Cristiano Jr.

Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted at a dream that has fans buzzing—playing professional football alongside his son, Cristiano Jr. In a… Read More

November 22, 2024

Canadian Authorities Accuse Indian Agents of Serious Crimes

The government of Canada has responded to a recent media report linking Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the killing of… Read More

November 22, 2024

Fewer Americans Apply for Unemployment, but Challenges Persist

The Labor Department reported on Thursday that new jobless claims fell by 6,000 to 213,000 for the week of November… Read More

November 21, 2024

Judge Stanalonis Appointed County Administrative Judge for St. Mary’s Circuit Court

Chief Justice Matthew J. Fader of the Supreme Court of Maryland has named Judge Joseph M. Stanalonis as the county… Read More

November 21, 2024

Coachella 2025: Lady Gaga, Green Day, Post Malone, Travis Scott to Headline

The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is back in 2025 with an incredible lineup. Lady Gaga, Green Day, Post… Read More

November 21, 2024

This website uses cookies.

Read More