The Japanese government has offered condolences over the death of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il.

At a news conference Monday, Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Osamu Fujimura expressed the Japanese government's condolences over the sudden death of the Chairman of the North’s National Defense Committee Kim Jong-il. Fujimura also said Japan hopes the death would not have a negative effect on peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

Meanwhile, Japan convened an emergency security meeting following the death.

In the meeting, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda asked the government to strengthen information gathering on the North's movements and work closely and share information with other countries, including the U.S., South Korea and China. Noda also asked the government to prepare for any unexpected circumstances.