1.
Faced with the unprecedented disaster that struck
Asian countries, I have decided to attend the Special
ASEAN Leaders' Meeting on the Aftermath of the
Earthquake and Tsunami on 6 January in Indonesia
to express Japan's determination to extend the
maximum possible assistance commensurate with its
responsibilities as a fellow Asian partner, to
demonstrate our solidarity, and to discuss concrete
action.
2.
Japan will provide assistance to the maximum extent
possible in three ways: financial resources, knowledge
and expertise, and human resources.
(1)
For the time being, Japan will extend to affected
countries and international organizations concerned
up to $500 million of grant money as emergency
assistance to cope with the damage.
(2)
Japan will promote cooperation with countries and
international organizations concerned for the expeditious
establishment of a Tsunami early-warning mechanism
for countries surrounding the Indian Ocean , utilizing
Japan 's expertise and technology. Japan will propose
that a special session on this subject be convened
at the United Nations World Conference on Disaster
Reduction to be held from 18 to 22 January in Kobe
, Japan .
(3)
With respect to contributions of human resources,
Japan has already dispatched Japan Disaster Relief
Teams to various affected areas, and Japan will
make further contributions by utilizing fire department
helicopters and personnel. Japan will also consider,
as early as possible, additional contributions
by mobilizing Japan Self Defence Forces aircraft,
vessels and personnel.
3.
Noting the serious damage to social infrastructure
in disaster-stricken countries, Japan , in cooperation
with other countries and international organizations,
will extend its maximum assistance possible for
rehabilitation and reconstruction, based on the
situations in these countries.
