U.S. President Barack Obama on Wednesday evening called Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan, stressing that the United States is determined to "do everything possible" to support Japanese efforts to cope with the devastating earthquake and tsunami.
"The president emphasized that the U.S. is determined to do everything possible to support Japan in overcoming the effects of the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck on March 11," the White House said in a statement.
It said Obama briefed Kan on the additional support being provided by the U.S., including "specialized military assets" with expertise in nuclear response and consequence management.
The two leaders discussed the status of ongoing relief efforts in Japan, including the emergency at the Fukushima nuclear plant, the statement said.
Radiation shot up to dangerous levels near the Fukushima nuclear plant, which was damaged by the 9.0-magnitude earthquake and ensuing massive tsunami.
Kan briefed Obama on the status of Japanese actions to contain the nuclear emergency and bring the situation under control, the White House said in the statement, noting that the prime minister expressed Japan's appreciation for the "extensive humanitarian, technical and other support provided by the United States."
They reaffirmed that U.S. and Japanese experts and officials would continue to cooperate closely and they agreed to remain in close touch through this challenging period, the statement said.
"The president promised that the United States will always stand by Japan, our close friend and ally," the statement added, saying the two leaders also discussed the "welfare and safety" of American citizens in Japan, and Obama thanked Jan for his commitment to help American residents.