A large-scale disaster drill was held in Tokyo, Japan on Tuesday to enhance public disaster preparedness and response.
Tuesday marks the 14th year after a 9.0-magnitude earthquake hit northeast Japan, a disaster known in the country as the Great East Japan Earthquake. On March 11, 2011, an ensuing tsunami also led to core meltdowns at the Fukushima nuclear power plant operated by Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), resulting in a level-7 nuclear accident, the highest on the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale.
At a large commercial complex in downtown Tokyo, a comprehensive disaster drill unfolded, encouraging residents to participate in fire drills, CPR training, and disaster simulations.
Participants practiced using fire extinguishers under the guidance of professional firefighters, engaging in hands-on fire-fighting operations. A tent simulating a smoke-filled fire scene was also set up, allowing comers to practice personal escape methods.
"I never realized how much smoke can obstruct your vision during a fire. It's terrifying to think about being in a smoke-filled room. I've learned that I still have many gaps in my knowledge, like rushing to open doors out of panic. It's crucial to know these things in advance," said one participant.
"Disasters can happen at any time, so I treat these drills as part of daily life, not just a one-off event. Even if it's hard to remain calm during a disaster, I'll try to stay composed and focus on self-rescue and helping others," said another participant.
To provide a more realistic disaster experience, a special vehicle was used to simulate the vibrations of a six- to seven-magnitude earthquake. During the intense shaking, participants were guided on how to take cover or engage in protective stances.
Although the timing of this drill drew a large number of people, these disaster preparedness sessions are now conducted three times annually, primarily involving local residents, office workers, and shop employees.
Tokyo holds large-scale disaster drill on 14th anniversary of Fukushima quake
Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Saturday China is willing to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and advance the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane in the capital of Lesotho.
During the meeting, Wang congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence this year, and spoke highly of Lesotho government's efforts to prioritize economic development and steer the African country onto a path of sustainable growth. Since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024, the two sides have advanced cooperation under the 10 partnership action plans unveiled at the summit, successfully implementing a number of key projects to effectively promote Lesotho's development and revitalization, Wang said.
China stands ready to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and push for greater development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership, he added.
Calling on the two sides to firmly support each other, Wang said that China will accelerate the implementation of its zero-tariff policy for African countries, including Lesotho, expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation, facilitate broader access of Lesotho's specialty products to the Chinese market, and continue to support Lesotho's national development.
China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and acts of bullying, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, Wang said.
On his part, Matekane said during the meeting that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries, and expressed gratitude for China's valuable support for the development of African countries, including Lesotho.
Lesotho firmly adheres to the one-China principle and resolutely supports China in safeguarding its core interests, he said, noting that his country stands ready to strengthen strategic mutual trust with China, expand people-to-people exchanges, jointly implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, manufacturing and energy.
Matekane stressed that China's zero-tariff policy for African products will inject new impetus into Lesotho's development. He also expressed Lesotho's willingness to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges.
On the same day, Wang also held talks with Lejone Mpotjoana, minister of foreign affairs and international relations of Lesotho.
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
