InsideJapan News Network

The amount of money donated to help Japan deal with the aftermath of the March 11th earthquake now totals more than one billion yen (£7.5 million), the government has said.

This total includes money from foreign governments, private-sector groups and individuals, while 1,300 tons in relief supplies has also been donated, the Associated Press reports.

Foreign minister Takeaki Matsumoto told a press conference that the amount received by diplomatic missions abroad is expected to reach a grand total of ten billion yen.

Mr Matsumoto expressed his "heartfelt gratitude" on behalf of the entire nation for the financial assistance offered by a total of 134 countries and 39 international organisations.

The generosity has surpassed that seen in the aftermath of the 1995 Kobe earthquake, a customs official told the AP.

However, the BBC reports that many charities have faced criticisms that they were too quick to start fundraising for Japan and did not have a clear idea about whether the money was actually needed.

Written by Mark Smith


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