Jiji Press Outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Japan John Roos sent a reassuring message this week, using the Japanese word “ganbatte” to encourage residents of the Tohoku region devastated by the 2011 disaster.
“The most difficult period [in Japan] is without doubt after March 11, 2011, to witness the enormity of the tragedy that struck Japan,” Roos said at a press conference at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo on Thursday.
Roos praised residents of the disaster-hit region, which he visited many times, saying: “I know everyone talks about strength and resilience. I continue to see it every time I go up there.”
“My message to the people of Tohoku is that we have not forgotten and we will not forget.”
He said, “I was proud that after March 11, through Operation Tomodachi, even beyond military operations, we were able to help Japanese people in a small way.”
Roos, who became the first U.S. ambassador to Japan to attend ceremonies for atomic bomb victims in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, said he wanted to “show respect for all victims of World War II” and “help advance in a small way” U.S. President Barack Obama’s goal of eliminating nuclear weapons.
Asked if he will advise Obama to visit the two Japanese cities after returning to the United States, Roos said, “I think scheduling is up to the president and the White House.”
“But I have no doubt in the sincerity of his words. He would be honored to do so during his presidency,” Roos said.