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 September 23, 2013

DPJ asks S.Korea to lift ban on Japanese seafood

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/news/20130923_26.html

Senior members from Japan's largest opposition party have asked South Korea's ruling party to lift a ban on imports of Japanese marine products.

The ban was imposed on products from 8 Japanese prefectures, in connection with leaks of contaminated water at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.

Democratic Party Secretary General Akihiro Ohata and others met South Korea's Saenuri Party Chairman, Hwang Woo-yea, in Seoul on Monday.

Ohata said marine products are being consumed without anxiety in Japan. He urged South Korea to deal with Japanese food imports on a scientific basis.

Hwang responded the consumption of South Korean seafood is also declining due to rumors about radioactive fallout in the ocean.

Hwang said it's important for both countries to provide objective data. He also proposed an on-site inspection at the plant by Japanese and South Korean lawmakers.

The DPJ members then met South Korea's National Assembly Chairman Kang Chang-hee. They agreed that exchanges between both countries' parties and lawmakers are important to improve bilateral ties.

Relations between Japan and South Korea have been strained due to disputes over territorial issues and their interpretation of history.