BANGKOK, Jan 4 — Asean is ready to extend its assistance to relief efforts following the earthquake in Ishikawa Prefecture, central Japan, on Jan 1.
In a statement, Asean foreign ministers said Asean is saddened by the loss of lives and extensive damage to properties caused by the earthquake.
“Asean expresses its heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the government and people of Japan, especially the families and communities affected by the earthquake.
“Asean affirms its solidarity with the government and people of Japan in this difficult time,” it said.
The ministers said Asean is confident that Japan will overcome and recover swiftly from the impact of the earthquake.
According to Xinhua, amid ongoing rescue efforts, the death toll has risen to 82 with the number of people unaccounted for climbing to 80 on Thursday afternoon three days after a series of earthquakes of up to 7.6 magnitude struck the prefecture and its vicinity.
— Bernama
