On March 11, Japan was struck by massive earthquake measuring almost 9.0 on the Richter scale. According to a CNN report , it was the strongest earthquake to hit Japan since the record keeping began and caused massive damage and unleashed killer tsunami waves. "The 8.9-magnitude temblor, which was centered near the east coast of Japan, killed hundreds of people, caused the formation of 30-foot walls of water that swept across rice fields, engulfed entire towns, dragged houses onto highways, and tossed cars and boats like toys."
Today, 10 days after the tragedy, Japan is still struggling to come to terms with the scale of destruction. Near nuclear disaster caused by the earthquake is hampering rebuilding and rescue efforts. The Wall Street Journal reported on March 16, that insured loss caused by the disaster could be in the billions. "Disaster-modeling company Eqecat on Wednesday predicted insured losses from Japan's devastating earthquake and tsunami would be $12 billion to $25 billion, an estimate whose high end is significantly lower than an earlier estimate."
A friend in need
Japan has always been a great friend of Nepal. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan says that they have loaned 58.4 billion yen, extended technical cooperation of 42.6 billion and offered grants of 13.6 billion since diplomatic relations were established in 1956. Apart from extending financial and technical support to Nepal, Japan also provides scholarships, technical training opportunities and employment opportunities to Nepalis. Over the years, Japan has emerged as an appealing destination for Nepali students seeking foreign educational and research opportunities.
Nepal stands with Japan
It will not be an exaggeration to say that there is lot of love and appreciation for Japan among Nepalis, at home and abroad. So when the news of the earthquake reached Kathmandu, the reaction was swift.
As a sign of support and solidarity, Nepal's leading English language daily Republica published an editorial on the Japanese disaster. "Our empathy with the Japanese people and our eagerness to help during this time of devastation and grief are what matter more than any ability to actually help."
Bloggers were quick to offer support and appealed to the international community to help Japan. On Twitter, too, Nepalis were sharing messages of solidarity with Japan. I used Twitter messages to share information on the situation of Nepali students in Japan and how they are being helped.
On March 16, the Japanese Embassy in Kathmandu was moved by the show of support released a statement, according to The Himalayan Times. "We would love to show our sincere appreciation for your warm support for our country suffering from the huge disaster that happened.”
There is hope
As the Japanese come together to rebuild their country after this massive tragedy, they will find comfort in knowing that people around the world and in Nepal support them and are praying for them. Humanity is a family, and no matter our differences we do come together in times like this. There is hope for Japan, and there is hope for all of us.
Bhumika Ghimire - Bhumika Ghimire is a freelance writer and reporter. She is a content producer for Associated Content and writes for OhMyNews.com and News ...
