BEIJING, April 20 -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Wednesday sent condolences to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe over earthquakes that jolted Kumamoto Prefecture in southwestern Japan last week.

"The strong earthquakes that hit Kumamoto Prefecture in your country has caused huge casualties and property damage," Li said in a message.

"I offer deep-felt condolences on behalf of the Chinese government and people," Li said, express his belief that the Japanese government and people will surely overcome the difficulties and rebuild their homeland.

China will continue to keep a close watch on the aftermath of the disaster and stands ready to provide necessary help, he added.

A strong quake measuring 6.5 magnitude rocked Kumamoto late Thursday and over 700 aftershocks have occurred since then, including a 7.3-magnitude earthquake that jolted the same area early Saturday.

At least 48 people were killed and three people were missing due to the earthquakes.