Obama calls up Japan PM to discuss relief efforts

US President Barack Obama today spoke to Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan to discuss about the status of ongoing relief efforts in the quake-hit nation, including the Fukushima nuclear crisis, the White House said.

During the telephonic conversation, Obama conveyed his deep condolences at the tragic loss of life and the widespread suffering in northeastern Japan and emphasized that the US is determined to do everything possible to support Japan in overcoming the effects of the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck on March 11.

"We're at a moment in a time where obviously all of us are heartbroken by the images of what's happening in Japan, and we're reminded of how American leadership is critical to our closest allies," Obama said earlier in his remarks at an event of the Washington.

"Even if those allies are themselves economically advanced and powerful, there are moments where they need our help, and we're bound together by a common humanity," he said.

The White House said Obama during the telephonic call briefed Kan on the additional support being provided by the US, including specialized military assets with expertise in nuclear response and consequence management.

Obama and Kan also discussed the welfare and safety of American citizens in Japan and the President described steps that the US is taking in this regard and thanked him for his commitment to help American residents.

Kan briefed Obama on the status of Japanese actions to contain the nuclear emergency and to bring the situation under control.

"The Prime Minister expressed Japan's appreciation for the extensive humanitarian, technical and other support provided by the United States," the White House said, adding the two leaders reaffirmed that US and Japanese experts and officials would continue to cooperate closely and they agreed to remain in close touch through this challenging period.

The White House said Obama promised that the US will always stand by Japan, its close friend and ally.

Obama expressed his extraordinary admiration for the character and resolve of the Japanese people, and his confidence that Japan will make a full recovery from this disaster, it said.