I am deeply grieved and saddened at the news of the large earthquake that struck eastern Taiwan recently, causing a great amount of damage.

I wish to offer my sincere prayers for the repose of the souls of all those who lost their precious lives, and I express my heartfelt sympathies to all who have been affected.

When the Great East Japan Earthquake struck, Japan received truly heartwarming assistance from the people of Taiwan, with whom we are old friends, and memories of this kindheartedness reside deep in the hearts of the Japanese. Japan stands ready to provide any necessary assistance to Taiwan at this difficult time.

Japan has already dispatched a team of specialists including police, firefighting personnel, and others, and is ready to provide the greatest possible assistance in search and rescue activities.