Japan thanks Azerbaijan, other countries for support after deadly quake

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has thanked Azerbaijan and dozens of other countries for expressing condolences and offering assistance following the deadly 7.1-magnitude earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture on the southern island of Kyushu.

In a message published on X, Takaichi said Japan had received heartfelt condolences and concrete offers of support from countries, regions and international organisations in the aftermath of the disaster, Caliber.Az reports.

"In response to the 2026 Kumamoto Earthquake, we have received, as of today, heartfelt messages of sympathy and specific offers of assistance from the people of many countries and regions, as well as international organisations. I would like to take this opportunity to once again express my profound gratitude," the prime minister wrote.

令和８年熊本地震に対し、今日現在で多くの国・地域、国際機関の皆様から、温かいお見舞いのメッセージや具体的な支援の申し出をいただいており、改めて深く感謝申し上げます。…

— 高市早苗 (@takaichi_sanae) July 31, 2026

Takaichi specifically thanked 56 countries, including Azerbaijan, as well as seven international organisations for their messages of solidarity and support.

The earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture on July 28, causing widespread damage and power outages across parts of Kyushu. Authorities initially issued a tsunami warning, which was later lifted.

According to the latest official figures, 34 people were killed in the earthquake, while emergency response and recovery efforts continue in the affected areas.

By Sabina Mammadli