KIGALI- The government of Rwanda has sent a condolence message to Japan following a powerful earthquake that left thousands dead.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government stands with Japan in her time of difficulty.

"It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of sympathy that we learned of the terrible earthquake that hit the North-East part of Japan, triggering a tsunami that caused loss of many lives, injuries and extensive destruction of properties,” the statement reads in part.

Thousands of Japanese are reported dead after one of the strongest earthquakes struck, triggering a devastating 10-metre high tsunami along parts of the country’s north-eastern coastline.

 "The Government of Rwanda extends heartfelt condolences to the government, people of Japan and more especially to the bereaved families and assures them of its solidarity in this moment of great sadness.”

Japan has an embassy in Rwanda, headed by Ambassador Kunio Hatanaka.

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