US President Barack Obama today spoke with Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan to discuss 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. 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 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.