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HomeResourcesNews from the EU2013> Letter by the President of the European Council to the Prime Minister of Japan on the second anniversary of the 2011 tsunami

Letter by the President of the European Council to the Prime Minister of Japan on the second anniversary of the 2011 tsunami

EU News 125/2013

11 March 2013
Brussels

The earthquake followed by the tsunami that devastated part of the Japanese East coast two years ago is deeply engraved in our memory and in our hearts. The European Union and its Member States immediately mobilised resources to support the relief efforts. We also grieved with the Japanese people whilst admiring their resilience and fortitude. The scars are still painful, but Japan has shown its capacity to recover and to move ahead to the world.

Today, I wish to reiterate the European Union's deep friendship for your country and solidarity with its people and government. The European Union is at your side, as only standing together can we confront effectively the challenges of this globalised world.

Today is a day of remembrance and mourning, but also of hope. Hope in the capacity of mankind to unite in moments of fear and pain and together overcome difficulties and build a better future.

Please receive, Mr Prime Minister, on my behalf and on behalf of the European Union, my deepest feelings of sympathy and solidarity on this anniversary.

Source and additional information:
http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/ec/135973.pdf