When the BCCJ launched its 3R CSR project in mid February, no one had an inkling of the dramatic events that would unfold almost one month later. The 3R initiative now takes on a whole new meaning—the rebirth, renewal and regeneration of Japan.
The events of 3/11—as it well may be remembered—are etched in the minds of many people around the world, not least in Japan, as the day of the devastating earthquake and tsunami, and then the precarious nuclear situation in Fukushima.
Our aim at the BCCJ is to provide support and information to those businesses in Japan promoting the long-established UK-Japan relationship. Never has a time been more important in furthering the strong ties between our two countries as Japan begins the long steady journey of rebuilding.
Strong leadership, courage and determination are needed; it is hoped that the Japanese government and authorities will rise to the occasion as they tackle the aftermath and accept the many offers of technical and practical help to rebuild communities and people’s confidence.
The British Embassy Tokyo and Sir John Beddington, the UK’s chief scientific adviser, are holding regular briefings on the unfolding situation at the Fukushima nuclear power plant. Transcripts of these briefings are posted on the BCCJ Facebook page.
Details and information on how you can contribute in terms of money, or more simply your time, also are posted.
Thank you to all members and friends who have helped distribute information to the wider international community regarding what has been going on throughout the crisis. We promise to continue providing relevant and timely information for all.
As a group of foreigners who are feeling helpless but wanting to contribute, the BCCJ is working hard to direct willing volunteers in as many ways as possible to alleviate the discomfort of those displaced in the north east.
Our thoughts go to all those who have suffered as a result of the recent tragedies and we promise that the BCCJ will do everything it can to help in the rebirth, renewal and regeneration of Japan.
I would also like to place on record the thanks of our members and the Executive Committee to Ian de Stains OBE, who left the BCCJ on 31 March. Ian’s contribution has been immense and we wish him well with the next stage of his career journey.
