Japan has decided to provide additional humanitarian aid to Myanmar totaling about 37 million dollars.

Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko made the announcement at a news conference on Friday.

The Foreign Ministry says the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate three years after the military seized power in a coup, as airstrikes and fighting continue throughout the country. It says 18.6 million people are still in need of humanitarian assistance.

The Japanese government plans to provide assistance through international organizations, including the World Food Programme and the UN Children's Fund, as well as nongovernmental organizations.

The aid will include food and medicine distribution, medical services, as well as improved nutrition for pregnant women and infants.

Kamikawa told reporters that she is deeply saddened by the situation in which many civilians have been killed and wounded. She said Japan will continue to stand by the people of Myanmar while carefully grasping the needs of those facing difficulties.