Editor's note: Ruqiya Anwar, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a PhD scholar of Media and Communication Studies in Pakistan. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

Japan's recent decision to release radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant into the ocean has sparked international concern and drawn the attention of the international community, prompting some countries to question the safety of Japanese food exports. This action, although allowed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has left experts a lot of unresolved queries, giving rise to justifiable cause for concern.

As Japan prepares to implement its plan, it is crucial for the international community to maintain vigilance and express its concerns regarding the potential risks associated with this action. The potential for radioactive contamination of food products from affected regions poses a significant risk that must be effectively addressed. China, demonstrating its vigilance, has banned the import of edible foodstuffs from 10 regions in Japan, including Fukushima, in order to safeguard its consumers from potential exposure to radioactive substances. The Chinese customs authority has also increased inspections of food imports from other regions of Japan, especially seafood, to assure the detection of radioactive materials and prevent the importation of hazardous goods.

This action illustrates the global apprehension regarding the safety of Japanese food products, and heightened vigilance is essential for enhancing the detection rate of radioactive substances and preventing the entry of hazardous products onto the Chinese market. Consumer health and safety protection should be a top priority.

Although the IAEA has granted its approval, the consensus among experts is not unanimous. Persistent concerns include the justification for the discharge, the dependability of the employed purification devices, and the sufficiency of the monitoring efforts. These residual uncertainties necessitate a cautious approach and necessitate additional investigation prior to taking irreversible action.

The IAEA's two-year safety assessment determined that Japan's plan is consistent with the organization's safety standards. The discharges of treated water would have "negligible" radiological effects on both people and the environment, the IAEA report said.

Nonetheless, it is essential to recognize that the report is merely one stage in an ongoing procedure, and that vigilance must be continued throughout the discharge phase.

The long-term effects of such a massive discharge into the ocean are still unidentified, raising concerns for marine life, ecosystems, and human health. Additionally, there is concern regarding the potential bioaccumulation of radioactive substances in the food chain, which could pose risks to local as well as global consumers.

The international community should urge Japan to address the unanswered queries concerning the safety and potential consequences of discharging treated radioactive water into the ocean.

It is essential to recognize that Japan's decision has far-reaching consequences. The release could have effects beyond national borders, affecting neighboring nations and possibly contaminating international waters. Therefore, it is crucial for the international community to engage in dialogue, voice concerns, and participate in the decision-making process. The voices of neighboring nations, particularly those with extensive coastlines and marine resources, must be heard and valued.

Transparency, continual evaluation and adherence to international safety standards must be prioritized throughout this process. By advocating comprehensive scrutiny and transparency, the international community can play a crucial role in assuring the protection of both the environment and public health in light of Japan's decision.

In the face of Japan's decision, the international community can help ensure the protection of both people and the environment by pressing for comprehensive inspection and transparency. Japan must address the unanswered questions regarding the safety and potential consequences of releasing radioactive water, taking into consideration the global ramifications of its decision.

Japan must uphold and adhere to the highest international safety standards while managing the release of radioactive water. It is essential that the country demonstrate its dedication to environmental and public health protection. Any decision or action must be governed by the principles of the IAEA's safety standards, considering the concerns of neighboring nations and the international community.

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