The ocean is not sewer for Japan's nuclear-contaminated water: Ministry

(ECNS) -- The ocean sustains humanity and it is not a sewer for Japan’s nuclear-contaminated water, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at a press conference on Tuesday.

Wang made the remarks in response to Japan’s announcement on Tuesday that it would begin releasing Fukushima wastewater as early as August 24.

Wang said that China is gravely concerned and strongly opposed to this and has made serious démarches to Japan.

“This is extremely selfish and irresponsible, as the discharge will spread the risks of nuclear contamination to the rest of the world, and by doing so, Japan is putting its selfish interests above the long-term wellbeing of the entire humanity,” he remarked.

According to Wang, for the past two years and more, the legitimacy, legality and safety of Japan’s ocean discharge plan have been questioned over and over again by the international community. Regrettably, Japan has given scarce responses to international concerns.

“Japan has yet to address major international concerns such as the long-term reliability of the purification facility, the authenticity and accuracy of the nuclear-contaminated water data, and the effectiveness of the monitoring arrangement,” he said.

Wang condemned Japan for trying to create an impression that the ocean discharge is safe and harmless and for its unfounded accusations against neighboring countries that have expressed legitimate concerns.

“All of these have caused outrage among people in neighboring countries and in Japan,” Wang said.

It is reported that China and other stakeholders have pointed out on multiple occasions that if the Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water is truly safe, Japan wouldn’t have to dump it into the sea—and certainly shouldn’t if it’s not.

“It is unjustified, unreasonable and unnecessary for Japan to push through the ocean discharge plan,” Wang stated.

Wang urged Japan to stop its wrongdoing, cancel the ocean discharge plan, communicate with neighboring countries with sincerity and goodwill, dispose of the nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner and accept rigorous international oversight

He concluded that China will take all steps necessary to protect the marine environment, ensure food safety and safeguard people’s life and health.