The Japanese government has decided to send a medical assistance team to quake-hit Myanmar.



Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi told reporters on Tuesday that the 32-person group would include doctors and nurses. They are set to leave Tokyo early Wednesday.



The minister said the team will join a Japanese group of disaster-needs researchers that has already been dispatched to Myanmar.



The government has sent 240 waterproof sheets and 450 tents to stricken areas after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the central part of Myanmar on Friday.



It is also preparing to swiftly provide hygiene products, water, water purifiers and other supplies through the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the United Nations.



Iwaya extended his heartfelt condolences to those who have been affected by the earthquake. He said the government will continue to provide as much humanitarian assistance as possible to help people in Myanmar.