Zimbabwe among the countries which reacted swiftly: Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan has expressed his gratitude to the government of Zimbabwe for its quick reaction following the catastrophic earthquake that hit his country last month.    

In a statement on Thursday, Kan said Zimbabwe was among the countries which reacted swiftly after the disaster and sent condolences, heartfelt sympathy and cordial support after more than 13 000 people lost their lives to the earthquake and tsunami.

Kan said over 130 nations and regions, Zimbabwe included, and 40 international organisations, a number of non-governmental organisations and people from around the globe extended their best wishes.

After the disaster, various countries and regions rushed in rescue workers to affected areas and delivered supplies such as food, medicines and blankets, a move which he said brought encouragement to the disaster victims.

"On behalf of the people of Japan, I extend my heartfelt thanks for such assistance from Zimbabwe and the world over," Kan said.

Turning to the issue of the radiation at Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power station, Kan said Japan was mobilising all the resources to bring the situation at the plant under control.