The Japanese government has pledged 3 million dollars in emergency grant aid for Afghanistan, where an earthquake killed more than 1,000 people last week.

Wednesday's magnitude 5.9 quake was centered in the eastern Afghan province of Khost.

Local authorities say at least 1,040 people died and more than 1,600 were injured.

Japan's Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa on Tuesday announced the aid package for humanitarian relief.

He said Japan will provide assistance in healthcare and other areas as requested by local officials.

The Japanese government decided last Friday to send blankets, water tanks and other emergency supplies to areas affected by the quake.

Hayashi promised continued assistance to meet the needs of the Afghan people.