China closely monitors Japan earthquake, mourns victims

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Wednesday that China is closely monitoring the earthquake that struck Japan's Kumamoto prefecture, expressing condolences for the victims and extending sympathies to their family members and those injured.

Mao said the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan immediately activated emergency response mechanisms and issued consular advisories.

"Chinese citizens are advised to remain vigilant against tsunamis and aftershocks," she said at a daily news briefing in Beijing.

She added that the Chinese Foreign Ministry and Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide timely assistance to Chinese citizens in need.