Japan’s representative to Taiwan, Numata Mikio, says the Japanese government is willing to offer assistance to the victims of a recent explosion in New Taipei City.
Numata was speaking Monday at the foreign ministry.
Some 500 people were injured during a party at a water park when colored powder that was sprayed on partygoers exploded and burst into flames. The powder was made of cornstarch, which is flammable.
Numata said that Japan is grateful for Taiwanese aid given after the massive earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan on March 11, 2011.
"Our side will be happy to support the Taiwan side if the Taiwan government asks us to do some kind of support regarding this incident," Numata said. "I am very honored to support it."