Govt offers assistance to quake-hit Japan; says Indians safe

New Delhi (PTI) - India on Friday conveyed its
sympathies to Japan and its people affected by the severe
earthquake and tsunami and offered assistance that may be
required by that country.
"We are saddened by the loss of life and extensive damage
to property and infrastructure," Indian Ministry of External
Affairs said here, adding letters of sympathy with offers of
assistance were written by Prime Minister and External Affairs
Minister to their Japanese counterparts.
Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao has spoken to Japanese
Ambassador here Akitaka Saiki to convey heartfelt sympathies
and condolences as well as offer any assistance that may be
required, the MEA said in a release.
The ministry also said that there were no reports of any
casualties amongst the approximately 25,000-strong Indian
community in Japan which is concentrated in the Kanto and
Kansai regions.
"Our Embassy in Tokyo and Consulate in Osaka are in touch
with community members and verifying the situation on the
ground. A control room has been established in the Embassy of
India, Tokyo which can be contacted on phone numbers 00813
32622391 to 97," it said.
The MEA is monitoring the situation closely and would
take all necessary steps required as per exigencies.