Taiwan Offers Rapid Rescue Aid to Quake-Hit Kumamoto; Japan to Assess Needs

Taiwan has swiftly offered to send search and rescue teams to Japan following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture. Taiwan's Interior Minister, Liu Shih-fang, announced that if a formal request is received from the Japanese government, the teams can be dispatched within four hours.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi acknowledged the condolences and aid offers from various countries and regions, including Taiwan. He stated that Japan is currently prioritizing its own rescue and relief operations and will evaluate the necessity of accepting external assistance based on the evolving situation.

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If requested by Japan, search and rescue teams can depart within 4 hours.

Taiwan's proactive stance has garnered attention from Japanese media, with NHK highlighting the island's readiness to assist. President Lai Ching-te had previously expressed Taiwan's sincere condolences and willingness to provide necessary help. The Ministry of the Interior has teams on standby in several cities, including Tainan, Hsinchu, Chiayi, and Kaohsiung, with Kaohsiung's special rescue team being particularly prepared due to its sister-city relationship with Kumamoto.

Beyond government efforts, the Republic of China Red Cross has pledged an initial 10 million Japanese yen (approximately NT$1.98 million) and opened a donation portal. The Taichung City government announced a donation of $100,000 USD (approximately NT$3.24 million) to aid Kumamoto. Taiwanese communities in Japan have also expressed solidarity and initiated support actions.

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Including Taiwan, several countries and regions have expressed condolences to Japan and offered assistance. Currently, the Japanese government is fully committed to rescue efforts, and whether to accept aid from various countries will be judged based on the subsequent situation.