I'd like to send out my deepest sympathy and prayers. The earthquake and tsunami claimed so many precious lives in such a short time. When I think of the victims of this disaster, filled with anxiety and facing an uncertain future, it brings tears to my eyes.

Many of the victims are children. Many of them have lost family members and friends. Their lives as evacuees may last for a long time. These physically and psychologically devastated children need our help.

With my friends and colleagues, I will put my heart and soul into helping the victims of this disaster in whatever way I can. I will devote myself to doing everything possible in my power to bring safety and peace of mind back to the children in the disaster-stricken areas.

We need to be resolute and hopeful, and unite our efforts to overcome this crisis and together build a stronger, more beautiful Japan. Children are our future. I will do everything I can to nurture the power of children to move toward the future.

Thank you for help and support for UNICEF activities.
Agnes Chan, Ambassador of the Japan Committee for UNICEF