COPENHAGEN, 11 March 2011 – President Petros Efthymiou of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly today released the following statement regarding the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, an OSCE Asian Partner for Co-operation:

“The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly extends its deep sympathies to those who have suffered losses in today’s earthquake and tsunami off the east coast of Japan.

We know that Japan has significant experience with seismic activity but recognize even the best emergency preparedness cannot prevent natural disasters.

We call on all people in the region to continue to monitor media and heed local government warnings to ensure safety and minimize injuries and potential loss of life.”