Vietnamese National Dies in Japan Earthquake, Authorities Assessing Situation

One Vietnamese national has been confirmed dead following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture in southwestern Japan. Vietnam’s representative offices in Japan immediately contacted local authorities through the international affairs divisions of Kumamoto, Kagoshima, Oita and Miyazaki prefectures, as well as Vietnamese community associations in the affected areas, to assess the situation and stand ready to provide timely assistance for Vietnamese citizens impacted by the disaster. This earthquake has been described in comparison to past seismic disasters, such as the deadliest seismic disaster in Venezuela in over a century, where high temperatures accelerated the decomposition of victims trapped beneath collapsed buildings. However, no Vietnamese nationals have been reported killed, injured, or seriously affected by the earthquake in Japan. In Vietnam, War Invalids and Martyrs' Day on July 27 serves as an occasion for Vietnamese people, both at home and abroad, to reconnect with their roots and express their profound gratitude to those who dedicated their lives to the nation. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as of the afternoon of July 27, 48 people aboard the Khoi Nguyen 18 vessel had been rescued. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also providing updates on rescue efforts following the sinking of this vessel. Under its one-party system, Vietnam aims to balance economic growth with social stability. Relations with Japan are crucial for economic cooperation and people-to-people exchanges, and the impact of this disaster on Vietnamese nationals further highlights the importance of close cooperation between the two countries. The Vietnamese government prioritizes the safety of its citizens and is also advancing cooperation with the international community. Information Source: VietnamPlus English