International rescue teams have flocked to quake-stricken Japan, while countries around the world provide relief funds and supplies.

Their assistance is expected to be a tremendous asset, as recovery operations continue at sites affected by Japan's largest ever quake, and subsequent tsunami.

China's Red Cross Society has decided to donate around 152,000 US dollars in emergency aid to its Japanese counterpart.

Two other associations -- the China-Japan Friendship Association and the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries -- are providing more than 15,000 dollars in a gesture of support for the quake relief effort.

A 15-member rescue team is to Beijing for the disaster zone early Sunday morning.

On the other side of the Pacific Ocean, US President Barack Obama pledged American assistance, following what he called a potentially "catastrophic" emergency.

He said one of his nation's aircraft carriers was already in Japan, and a second vessel was on the way.

Washington has also dispatched urban search and rescue personnel.

Following a direct appeal from the government in Tokyo, Britain will deploy a squad of 59 fire service search and rescue specialists, two sniffer dogs, and a medical support team.

The crew from London will take up to 11 tons of equipment, including heavy lifting and cutting gear, to help save the lives of people still trapped under the debris.

Meanwhile, Russia says six planes -- including an airborne hospital, along with 200 rescuers, psychologists, and doctors -- are ready to fly to Japan if officials there ask for their help.

Leaders in Moscow have also ordered 150,000 tons of liquefied gas prepared for delivery, if requested.

Other countries -- including Australia, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, and South Korea -- have donated relief funds, and other recovery necessities, or have sent rescue teams to the hardest-hit region.

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