Schulz blikt terug op de aardbeving en tsunami in Japan (en)

Marking the first anniversary of the earthquake in Japan, the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz i stated:

"One year after the earthquake and tsunami which ravaged Japan, our thoughts are with the thousands of people who lost their lives in this tragedy.

The Japanese people have given a remarkable example of dignity, resilience and preparedness on the occasion of the earthquake. The efforts and speed of the reconstruction work in Japan have been truly remarkable.

The Japanese people had to withstand not only the destruction of the earthquake and the tsunami, but also the consequences of the disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant which ensued. The composure of the Japanese people and the courage of the workers at the power plant have been extraordinary.

The Fukushima disaster has sparked a debate worldwide on the safety and future of nuclear energy. Systematic stress tests are now being carried out on power plants. I welcome this debate as a step to more informed decisions on a complex issue and as a way of raising awareness among European citizens about nuclear energy."

For further information:

europarl.president.press@europarl.europa.eu

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  Armin Machmer

  Spokesperson

  Mobile: +32 479 97 11 98

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  Giacomo Fassina

  Mobile: +32 498 98 33 10