China was one of the first countries to send a rescue team to Iwate prefecture, one of the worst hit by the tsunami, and sent $4.5 million worth of aid. Relief supplies, including blankets, torches, tents and 10 tons of bottled drinking water followed.
At the main memorial ceremony in Tokyo's National Theater, Emperor Akihito, who is recovering from heart bypass surgery performed just three weeks ago, thanked the international community for their help during the crisis.
Standing next to Empress Michiko, who was wearing a black kimono, he walked slowly on to the stage adorned with white chrysanthemums and bowed deeply in front of the altar.
He spoke slowly and strongly for seven minutes, thanking those who helped.
"I would like to express my deep gratitude to people who toiled for victims and for disaster-hit areas and to people who have worked to cope with the nuclear accident."
His words were echoed in a statement by Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda. "We will not forget the loved ones, friends and colleagues who were lost due to the disaster. Neither will we forget the outpouring of support and expressions of solidarity that Japan received from the international community. For this we feel deeply indebted and I take this opportunity to reiterate Japan's heartfelt appreciation."
Across Tokyo, the appearance of the frail emperor so soon after surgery will not be lost on people still struggling to cope, amid fears for the future, with issues like radiation, food safety, energy and rebuilding lives and homes.
【日本纪念大地震一周年】相关文章:
★ 如何挑选防晒霜
最新
2020-09-15
2020-09-15
2020-09-15
2020-09-15
2020-09-15
2020-09-15