Global General

World reaction to Japanese earthquake

(Agencies)
Updated: 2011-03-11 23:28

LONDON - Following are world reactions to the massive earthquake and devastating tsunami that struck off Japan's northeast coast on Monday:

U.N. SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN KI-MOON

"The world is shocked and saddened by the images coming out of Japan this morning ... We will do anything and everything we can at this very difficult time."

The United Nations said 30 international search and rescue teams were on alert to go to Japan to provide assistance.     

U.S. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

"The United States stands ready to help the Japanese people in this time of great trial ... The friendship and alliance between our two nations is unshakeable, and only strengthens our resolve to stand with the people of Japan as they overcome this tragedy."

The U.S. Defense Department was preparing American forces in the Pacific to provide relief.

RUSSIAN PRESIDENT DMITRY MEDVEDEV

"Russia is ready to offer Japan all possible aid to cope with the aftermath of this tragedy."

BRITISH PRIME MINISTER DAVID CAMERON

"We've had a terrible reminder of the destructive power of nature, and everyone should be thinking of that country and their people, and I've asked immediately that our government should look at what we can do to help."

British Foreign Minister William Hague said British rapid deployment teams were ready to travel immediately to the areas of most need.

FRENCH PRESIDENT NICOLAS SARKOZY issued a statement expressing sorrow.

"France stands ready to respond to any requests from Japan for help in the face of this tragedy," he said.

EUROPEAN COMMISSION PRESIDENT MANUEL BARROSO AND EUROPEAN COUNCIL PRESIDENT HERMAN VAN ROMPUY:

"We are deeply concerned at the news of the devastating earthquake which has struck Japan, causing a number of fatalities and serious material damage.

"The European Union expresses its solidarity and condolences to the people and government of Japan, and to the families of the victims at this difficult time.

"We stand ready to assist in any way we can in case of need."

SOUTH KOREA said it had 40 emergency rescue workers on standby to fly to Japan, pending clearance.

CHINESE PREMIER WEN JIABAO said Beijing was ready to provide Japan with any assistance it required. 

THAILAND offered $165,000 in aid and said it would consider giving more when the extent of the damage was known.  (Compiled by Kevin Liffey, London World Desk