Akhir 07, 1432 / March 12, 2011, SPA -- The Secretary General of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) Prof. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu was saddened at the destruction of life and properties in Japan after the country was hit by the 8.9 magnitude earthquake followed by tsunamis on Friday 11 March 2011. He offered his heartfelt condolences to the people and Government of Japan, in particular to the bereaved families who lost their near and dear ones during these natural calamities of unprecedented magnitude. He said that the Muslim World is shocked as well as saddened and would stand by the devastated country and its people during their difficult times. He said that the OIC and its member states would be ready to extend any possible assistance in this regard. The Secretary General expressed his sincere hope that under the able leadership of current authorities, the people of Japan would soon overcome the tragic situation, OIC said on its website.