The Bank of Japan will consider extending beyond the end of March its emergency support measures for companies facing financial difficulties amid the coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Haruhiko Kuroda said Wednesday.

"It's highly possible that we will extend (the program) if we judge it necessary," Kuroda said at a news conference after an online meeting with corporate managers in Osaka.

Kuroda's remarks came only hours after he agreed with Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga to maintain close communication and coordination over monetary policy in their first meeting since the premier took office a week ago.