I don't understand the Japanese government's policy on nuclear power plants. On one hand, it has come out with a denuclearization policy domestically; on the other, it is planning to sell nuclear power plants to Turkey, Jordan, Vietnam, Lithuania, and Kazakhstan by 2020. This is a double standard.
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry estimates that the world market for nuclear power plants will reach ¥16 trillion in 2020. Nuclear power plant maker Toshiba Corp. states that its plants can cool down in 24 to 72 hours if there is loss of power.
The safety of nuclear power plants is still questioned. And what about terrorist attacks, an unprecedented earthquake, an unimaginable malfunction or an outbreak of war?
Forty-five percent of about 1,150 children surveyed in Fukushima Prefecture have tested positive for exposure to radiation in their thyroid glands. Beef, rice and tea have been contaminated by radiation. Some pregnant women in the Tohoku region are afraid that their unborn children have been affected by radiation. Yet, Japan plans to export nuclear power plants.
Is Japan going to take responsibility when the exported power plants break down? Selling nuclear power plants is like selling opium or deadly weapons. Japan should stop selling nuclear power plants overseas before it is called a merchant of death.
The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.