Japan, which has lost one of its citizens in the terrorist attacks in Mumbai, has expressed sympathy with the Indian government and said it would stand by the country in its fight against terror.

"India and its people have been suffering from the brutal forces of terrorism and we in Japan have also felt its impact. One Japanese has been killed and another has been injured. At this time, we would stand by the government in its fight against terror," said Hideaki Domichi, Japanese Ambassador to India, today at the sidelines of a function in New Delhi.

A Japanese businessman identified as Hisashi Tsuda was shot dead as he was about to check into the Trident-Oberoi hotel late Wednesday shortly after arriving there. Tatsuya Kessoku, who was accompanying Tsuda was injured in the firing.

"We express our sincere condolences to those killed and injured. A lot of people have suffered from this. The government and the people of Japan have sympathy for the people and the Government of India. At the same time it is the common agenda of all of us to fight terror," Domichi said.

The ambassador appreciated the sincere and professional approach of the security forces in the incident. "It is a very very difficult work and we would like to appreciate them for their professionalism and also offer condolences for those citizens who have been killed in the heavy firing."

Asked if Japan would collaborate with India in fighting terror, he said, "Our government will shortly call the Government of India. The leadership of Japan will talk with the leadership of India to discuss way a to fight terror."

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