West Africa's ambassadors are calling on the Japanese government to help their countries combat the deadly Ebola virus by building medical facilities and training personnel.
At the Japan National Press Club on Friday, Liberian Ambassador Youngor Telewoda said Japan's cooperation in this area is vital to fighting the highly contagious disease in his poorly equipped nation.
Guinean Ambassador Senkoum Sylla also called for Tokyo's assistance, urging the provision of ambulances and medical equipment.
"The Ebola crisis has seriously affected our entire economy, even our social structure," he said.
Japan announced this month that it would provide up to $100 million in additional humanitarian assistance to Ebola-hit countries in West Africa.
Norio Maruyama, director-general of the Foreign Ministry's African Affairs Department, said the government may also offer help rehabilitate rural areas in these nations.