The Libyan Foreign Ministry has expressed its sympathy and solidarity with the government and people of Japan, following the deadly earthquake that struck the country.
In a statement, the Ministry also extended its sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, wishing those injured a speedy recovery.
48 people were killed in the powerful earthquake, which caused homes to collapse and triggered tsunami warnings, according to the BBC.
Japan’s Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida says the quake has caused numerous casualties and they face a “race against time” to rescue survivors.
Around 1,000 rescuers are searching for people who they think may be trapped beneath the rubble.
In October, the Japanese government announced its intention to provide aid in the form of grants to those affected by the devastating floods in Libya.
In an official statement released by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the aid initiative is set to deliver essential daily necessities to the victims of the storm Daniel, which hit the eastern region of Libya.
This support will be channeled through the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Japan has pledged $3 million dollars in emergency assistance to those affected by the widespread flooding in Libya. The aid will be distributed through the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
On 10 September, a devastating storm swept through several eastern regions of Libya, notably the cities of Derna, Benghazi, Al-Bayda, Al-Marj, and Sousse. This resulted in significant destruction, and led to the loss of thousands of lives, injuries, and missing individuals.
In June, the Japanese Embassy in Libya discussed the return of Japanese companies and resuming their work in Libya with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The meeting included the Libyan Charge d’Affaires in Japan, the National Oil Corporation (NOC) and several Japanese institutions representing the energy economy.
The focus of the meeting was to encourage Japanese companies to return to Libya’s oil and gas industry, through exploration and investment in the sector. The Japanese government has invited interested companies to participate in the development and growth plans of the country.