PM Lee sends condolences over Japan New Year’s Day earthquake
A firefighter walks through the rubble and wreckage of a burnt-out marketplace in Wajima, Ishikawa prefecture on Jan 2, 2024, following the earthquake that hit Japan on New Year's Day. (File photo: AP/Kyodo News)
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SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Thursday (Jan 4) expressed his condolences over the 7.5-magnitude earthquake that struck Japan on New Year’s Day.
The quake, which struck the Noto region in Ishikawa prefecture, left at least 78 dead. Dozens are still missing
“I was deeply saddened by the loss of lives and damage caused by the Noto Peninsula earthquake on New Year’s Day,” wrote Mr Lee in a letter to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
“On behalf of the government of Singapore, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in this disaster.”
The powerful earthquake, followed by hundreds of aftershocks, injured at least 330 people, according to local authorities.
The quake left thousands of households across Ishikawa without electricity or water as rescuers struggled to reach isolated communities cut off from help.
“I also wish speedy recovery to the injured. Our thoughts are with you and the people of Japan during this difficult time,” said Mr Lee as he concluded his letter.
“Please let me know if Singapore can be of any assistance in the relief efforts.”
