The Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Moldova Yamada Yoichiro welcomed the solidarity expressed by the Moldovan people with the Japanese people over the earthquake that hit Japan and the plane collision on the runway at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport. He noted that for the people of Japan, every disaster is a reminder of the importance of good planning and preparation, IPN reports.

“We sincerely thank President Maia Sandu, Prime Minister Dorin Recean, all the other Moldovan officials and friends of Japan for the warm messages of condolence addressed to the bereaved families and those who were directly affected. Thank you for expressing solidarity with the Japanese people,” reads the Ambassador’s message published by the Embassy of Japan in Moldova.

According to the diplomat, disasters cannot be controlled, but preparedness can be improved. “Every disaster reminds us, the Japanese people, once again of the importance of good planning and preparation. We will overcome tragedies and become more prepared for the future,” said Yamada Yoichiro.

According to the Embassy of Japan, the Noto Peninsula, located in central Honshu on the shores of the Sea of Japan, was hit by a powerful earthquake on New Year's Day. About eighty people were confirmed dead. Rescue efforts are still ongoing.

On January 2, a large landing passenger plane collided with a Japanese Coast Guard aircraft carrying humanitarian aid to earthquake-hit areas on the runway at the Haneda Airport. All 379 people aboard the Japan Airlines (JAL) plane escaped the burning aircraft, but five crew members of the smaller aircraft died.