Japan's Assistance concerning the Hostage Situation at a School in the Republic of North Ossetia, Russian Federation

September 8, 2004

1. On Wednesday September 8, the Government of Japan decided to provide financial cooperation of 100,000 USD as victim assistance to the International Federation of Red Cross & Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) upon receiving a request for assistance from the Government of the Russian Federation for provision of necessary medical equipment and supplies as well as the IFRC issuing an emergency appeal for victim assistance concerning the hostage situation at a school in the city of Beslan of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania in southern Russia that occurred on September 1.
2. The purpose of the appeal by the IFRC is to provide assistance in dealing with post traumatic stress experienced by the victims of the incident, in addition to the provision of assistance materials such as medical supplies. Japan's financial cooperation will be used for this purpose.
3. The Government of Japan reiterates its condolences for the victims and their bereaved family members in the hostage situation in which the lives of so many citizens including children were sacrificed. Such contemptible terrorist acts can in no way be tolerated, nor can they be justified under any circumstances. The government expresses its support and respect for President Vladimir Putin and the Russian Government as they have maintained a firm stance and have boldly fought against terrorism.
4. The fight against terrorism is one that the international community must undertake together. The Government of Japan intends to continue working on this issue with the international community, including Russia.