China: Isolated for “criticizing IAEA response”
-IAEA general meeting, only China clearly opposes-
– Global reaction is mostly in favor of releasing treated water –
We will deliver summaries of articles published on Jiji.com.
IAEA general meeting held:
The General Assembly of the International Atomic Energy Agency (177 member countries) is being held in Vienna.
On September 27th, the general debate speeches by each country’s representatives concluded.
Discharge of TEPCO’s treated water into the ocean:
It has been more than a month since the discharge of treated water containing tritium from the Tokyo Electric Power Company’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the ocean began.
Only China has clearly expressed its opposition:
Of the 133 countries that took the stage during the three-day speech, China was the only one to clearly express its opposition.
The majority do not support “China’s criticism of the IAEA.”
However, each country’s stance differs.
Supporting TEPCO’s release of treated water:
Most of the world supported ”the IAEA’s independent monitoring” and “Japan’s efforts.”
European countries such as Germany and Italy:
Some (Bulgaria) expressed their appreciation for Japan’s cooperative attitude and transparency.
It is in our interest to protect the authority of the IAEA.
If the IAEA’s authority weakens, it could have a negative impact on nuclear facility inspections and monitoring operations.
A sense of crisis led to support for the European release plan.
China alone criticizes IAEA response:
Regarding the involvement of the IAEA, China
1. IAEA ‘lacks independence’
2. He criticized the IAEA’s data, saying, “It is questionable whether it is true.”
This statement backfired and was perceived as a challenge to the authority of the IAEA.
Several countries support China:
Few countries agree with China.
Syria expressed concerns, calling it “very concerning,” but did not object.
Venezuela and Russia, which had previously been aligned with China, remained silent.
Solomon Islands did not have a chance to speak as it is not a member of the IAEA.
South Korea remains critical:
Using the expression “contaminated water,” the agency ordered the IAEA to continue monitoring the water.
IAEA Director General Grossi:
Treated water releases will continue for decades to come.
He stressed that he would continue to monitor “until the last drop.”
Japanese government representatives also agreed to ensure safety “to the last drop.”
![IAEA Review of Safety Aspects of Handling of ALPS Treated Water [MOE]](https://www.env.go.jp/en/chemi/rhm/basic-info/1st/img/img-06-03-11.png)
IAEA General Assembly: Main statements regarding treated water release
(in order of speaking)
【China】
The release of nuclear-contaminated water due to a nuclear power plant accident is unprecedented.
There is great uncertainty regarding the effects of radioactive material accumulation on the oceans. There is no reliable explanation from Japan.
【South Korea】
We appreciate Secretary General Grossi’s leadership in carefully reviewing the safety of the contaminated water release plan. I sincerely hope that effective monitoring continues.
【Brazil】
I respect Secretary General Grossi’s leadership in extremely difficult situations, such as supporting the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant and being stationed on-site at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant.
【Germany】
We fully trust the IAEA’s expertise and neutrality.
【Italy】
Welcomes IAEA comprehensive report and monitoring.
【Syria】
It’s very worrying. We urge all countries in the region to work together towards a solution.
【Malaysia】
Highly praised the IAEA’s scientific and technical judgments.
【new zealand】
The nuclear tests remain as a trauma.
important concerns. We welcome efforts towards dialogue and information sharing.
【Australia】
We have full confidence in the IAEA’s independent, science-based advice. We welcome Japan’s transparency and international involvement.
[Ecuador]
Recognizing Japan’s stance on ensuring safety. There is a fisheries industry and an ecosystem, so keep an eye out for updates.