‘Ready to extend possible assistance’: PM Modi writes to Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida over January 1 earthquake

He conveyed to his Japanese counterpart that he is “deeply anguished and concerned” over the earthquake and expressed “deepest condolences” to the families of those killed in the quake.

“I am deeply anguished and concerned to learn about the major earthquake that struck Japan on January 1,” Modi wrote. “I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families of those who lost their lives. We stand in solidarity with Japan and its people affected by the disaster,” the note said.

Around 90 people were killed when a 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck Japan’s northernmost peninsula of Noto on January 1. As per latest reports, the death toll in the quake rose to 92 with over 240 people still missing.

On Friday evening, Japanese ambassador Hiroshi Suzuki expressed his gratefulness to the people of India for their solidarity.

“Dear friends in India, I am deeply grateful for so many sincere condolences, prayers and warm encouragements regarding the Noto Earthquake in Japan,” he said in a post on X.

“Your solidarity at this very difficult time means so much for the Japanese people,” he added.

Hours after the series of quakes on Monday, the Indian Embassy based in Tokyo set up an emergency control room to extend assistance and relief.