U.S. President Barack Obama sent a letter to Emperor Akihito, extending his sympathy to victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake of March 11 and expressing admiration for the "courage" of the Japanese people, the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo said Thursday.
In the letter, dated March 24, Obama expressed "the deep sympathy felt by all Americans for the suffering of the Japanese people."
"The devastation and loss of life caused by the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami was heartbreaking," he said, adding "our prayers are with you in this time of grief."
After the devastation and loss of life, Obama said he was confident that "Japan will rebound from this tragedy even stronger than before and set an example for other nations through your resilience."
Obama also said the United States will continue to support the people.
"As the people of Japan recover and rebuild, the United States will stand steadfast by your side as a friend, partner, and ally."
He also wrote that he was moved by the courage of the Japanese.
"I speak for all Americans in expressing admiration for the courage, strength and determination with which the people of Japan are responding to this crisis," the letter said.