International Atomic Energy Agency Director-General Yukiya Amano on Monday underscored the importance of nuclear power generation, saying it contributes to stable electricity supply and economic growth.
"Nuclear power supports the economy as it ensures stable energy supply, and bolsters a nation's competitiveness," Amano said in a speech during an annual event in Tokyo organized by the Japan Atomic Industrial Forum, which promotes nuclear power.
The chief of the U.N. nuclear watchdog also said: "It is a misunderstanding that (international society) is pressed to choose either nuclear power or renewable energy" as they are "complementary to each other."
Following the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear disaster triggered by a huge earthquake and tsunami in March 2011, the majority of the public in Japan remain opposed to restarting nuclear reactors amid safety concerns.