PM Takaichi Visits Disaster-Hit Areas in Noto for 1st Time

Wajima, Ishikawa Pref., Dec. 7 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Sunday visited the Noto Peninsula in the central prefecture of Ishikawa, which was severely damaged by last year's powerful earthquake and heavy rains.

Inspecting the disaster-stricken areas for the first time since taking office in October, the prime minister expressed the government's policy of continuing to make all-out efforts toward recovery and reconstruction.

"I renewed my belief that restoring vibrant cityscapes is a national responsibility," she told reporters.

After arriving at Noto Airport in the city of Wajima, Takaichi observed a moment of silence and offered flowers at a memorial monument for the disaster victims. She later moved to the city of Suzu and inspected a landslide site and temporary housing.

In the afternoon, the prime minister visited the "Asaichi Dori" morning market street in Wajima, where a large-scale fire was caused by the 7.6-magnitude quake on New Year's Day last year.

[Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]