Kan, Sarkozy discuss nuclear power safety

PARIS--Visiting Prime Minister Naoto Kan on May 25 met French President Nicolas Sarkozy to discuss nuclear power safety and child abduction issues.

The two leaders met ahead of the summit of the Group of Eight (G-8) nations, which starts May 26 in Deauville, France.

Kan told Sarkozy that nuclear power safety is a top priority, and that Japan will expand its use of renewable energy sources as part of its future energy policy.

Kan also told the French president that his government and Tokyo Electric Power Co., the operator of the stricken Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, expect to bring the reactors to cold shutdown by next January, in accordance with TEPCO's road map.

He added that Japan would share information on the crisis and lead global discussions on lessons learned from the world's worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl.

Kan said Japan will still continue to use nuclear power after ensuring its safety based on the results of investigations into the Fukushima incident.

Sarkozy told Kan that further discussions are needed to avoid having to choose between using nuclear power or not.

The president also made clear France's willingness to support Japan's future development of nuclear power.

Kan and Sarkozy discussed increased use of renewable energy sources. However, considering France is one of the most ardent proponents of nuclear power, neither side offered details.

Kan also told the French leader that Japan has decided to sign the 1980 Hague Convention on international child abduction. A visibly pleased Sarkozy replied that Japan's joining the treaty was one of the most important issues between the two countries. Japan has been repeatedly criticized overseas for not signing the convention.

Both leaders also agreed to start foreign minister-level talks on international security and reform of the United Nations.

Before meeting with Sarkozy, Kan also met French Prime Minister Francois Fillon.