Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda held the 23rd meeting of the Nuclear Emergency Response Headquarters at the Prime Minister's Office.

Discussion took place on the situation concerning ensuring the safety of Fukushima Daini Nuclear Power Station of Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the steps following Step 2, and other matters.

Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said, "Today, a report was made regarding Fukushima Daini Nuclear Power Station of TEPCO. It was confirmed that the nuclear power station's nuclear reactors have achieved cold shutdown and that efforts are being made to multiply their safety functions and to cope with aftershocks and tsunamis, among other efforts. Based on this, I, as Prime Minister, declare the removal of the state of emergency pertaining to the nuclear power station.
In addition, based on the recent completion of Step 2, the Headquarters identified today basic approaches regarding the review of the no-entry zones and evacuation zones relating to Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station of TEPCO and the issues of consideration moving forward. Bearing in mind the reality that many residents still to this day, nearly nine months after the accident, are having to face a long and arduous struggle of living as evacuees, I would like this matter of zone review to be handled with attention to every detail, all the while grasping fully the wishes of the municipalities and residents. The Government is resolved to respond responsibly until the very end, without evading the various challenges, including allaying health concerns associated with radiation. With a view to achieving the recovery of the areas affected by the nuclear power accident, the Government will work as one to make maximum efforts for the decontamination operations, health management, monitoring of radiation, and employment creation.
Today, a report was also made on the mid- to long-term roadmap compiled by Minister Yukio Edano and Minister Goshi Hosono on December 21, and the schedule and arrangements toward decommissioning were confirmed. The Government will make every effort to maintain the safety of nuclear power stations and to carry out decommissioning operations.
Finally, there was a statement from Minister of Defense Yasuo Ichikawa regarding the termination of the dispatch of Self-Defense Force (SDF) units and other personnel for the response to the nuclear disaster. From my side as well, I would like to once again express my appreciation for the tireless efforts of the SDF, day and night, during their period of deployment."