On Saturday 12th October, Foreign Affairs Minister Abdulla Shahid sent the Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister, Toshimitsu Motegi, a letter of solidarity following the devastation caused by typhoon Hagibis.
Minister Shahid expressed sorrow in his message over the losses suffered by the people of Japan.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives and devastation caused due to Typhoon Hagibis today. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Government and the people of Japan during this catastrophic calamity.”
In addition, on behalf of the government, the citizens of Maldives and himself, he extended sincerest condolences and sympathies to the bereaved and affected families.
According to BBC, on Saturday, typhoon Hagibis struck in the Izu Peninsula, southwest of Tokyo, shortly before 1900 local time (1000 GMT) and traveled up the east coast. About half a million homes were left without electricity after this.
The Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) released an ‘Emergency Weather Warning’ (Level 5)’ calling on the public to remain vigilant with regard to rain and wind gusts. The Emergency Warning was issued to cities and towns in 12 separate prefectures.
Japanese officials have stated that over 140 people were wounded, and atlas 10 have been killed by the hurricane. In addition, as per Japan’s Fire Disaster and Management Agency, nine were reported missing.
