Reconstruction Minister Akiba visited Fukushima Prefecture for the first time since taking office and met with Governor Uchibori, emphasizing that the national government would take the lead in tackling reconstruction.
Reconstruction Minister Akiba, who entered the cabinet for the first time in the cabinet reshuffle, visited Fukushima Prefecture for the first time since taking office on the afternoon of the 12th, and met with Governor Uchibori at the prefectural office for about 20 minutes.
In it, Minister Akiba said, ``It's been exactly 11 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake, but while reconstruction is progressing, there are still 35,000 people in total, and more than 30,000 people in Fukushima alone, who are forced to live as evacuees. I believe that reconstruction and revitalization will continue to be an important issue.”
After that, he emphasized, "Since there are a mountain of important issues, I would like the government to take the lead in tackling them while working closely with Governor Uchibori."
In response, Governor Uchibori said, "Unfortunately, reconstruction and revitalization will take a long time, so as Minister for Reconstruction, I would like you to keep in mind that this is a long battle. The 12 municipalities in the evacuation areas all have different situations, so As the Minister for Reconstruction, I would like you to feel it with your own skin."
After the meeting, Minister Akiba held a press conference, saying, "As a member of the Diet who lives in the disaster area, I can't forget the scene of that battlefield 11 years ago. I would like to maintain close cooperation while always keeping that starting point in mind." said.
Minister Akiba plans to visit Iwate and Miyagi prefectures as early as next week and exchange opinions with their respective governors.