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Japan’s reconstruction minister quits

By IANS,

Tokyo : A Japanese minister in charge of reconstruction resigned Tuesday reportedly over his “high-handed” remarks with governors of two tsunami-hit areas, Xinhua reported.

The 60-year-old Reconstruction Minister Ryu Matsumoto’s resignation came after his remarks at a meeting with governors of Iwate and Miyagi prefectures Sunday were widely criticized.

The prefectures were hit by a devastating earthquake and a tsunami in March in which thousands died.

Prime Minister Naoto Kan had appointed him as reconstruction minister about a week ago.

He has been in charge of the programmes to remove debris and deliver aid to tens of thousands affected by the disasters.

Matsumoto served earlier as environment minister.