TOKYO: Japanese industry minister Hiroshi Kajiyama on Thursday emphasized the importance of cooperating with the International Atomic Energy Agency over the planned disposal of water from the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.

"We want to proceed with measures for contaminated water from decommissioned reactors in a way that is open to the international community," Kajiyama said at a meeting with visiting IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi.

The Japanese government is considering plans to release treated water from Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc.'s crippled power plant, which still contains radioactive tritium, into the sea or air.

Grossi supported the plans, saying they are "in line with established practice, so I am optimistic."

According to the ministry, the IAEA side expressed its readiness to assist Japan to monitor radioactive substances to be released along with the water.

A government subcommittee on Feb. 10 adopted a report that cited the release of the water into the sea or air as realistic options.

Japan is seeking evaluation and advice from the IAEA over the plans, and a report is expected soon.

"We hope to dispel harmful rumors and attain understanding from the international community by raising the transparency of the process," an industry ministry official said. Fishing industry figures and the South Korean government are critical of the plan to release the water into the sea.

JIJI Press