In remembrance of the great quake and tsunami: a full recovery for all

March 11 , 2020

Komeito issued a statement on March 11 in remembrance of the massive earthquake and tsunami that struck the Tohoku region on 2011. While offering the party’s deepest condolences for all the victims of that historic calamity, it also reaffirmed its commitment to the citizens of that stricken region: that they may all rebuild their lives and communities.

Despite the manifold advances in infrastructural reconstruction and homebuilding, some 48,000 people are still residing in prefabricated homes for evacuees, and the issues preventing them from returning to their former lives are getting more complex and personalized by the day.

So too are the challenges faced by the communities in the area, with care required to ensure that no one town or city is perceived to be the beneficiary of political favoritism, thus breeding resentment among other communities. Meanwhile, Komeito will continue to closely monitor the cleanup effort of the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear reactor complex, placing the utmost priority on safety while securing the agreement and support of local communities and the international community as well.

With the cap on fisheries off the coast of Fukushima lifted, we will remain vigilant that scientifically validated protocols are enforced for the safety of the catches, not only to allay consumer concerns but to neutralize vile efforts to cast doubt and aspersion on their quality. Concurrently, Komeito will continue to strive to actualize the Fukushima Innovation Coast Initiative, which will be comprised of a series of programs to develop renewable energy sources and innovative new industries.