On the afternoon of January 12 local time, a major earthquake struck Haiti causing casualties and massive property losses. The Chinese Government has extended thorough solicitude and sympathy. Chinese leaders care deeply for the safety of Chinese nationals including peacekeepers, compatriots from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan and overseas Chinese and have made immediate arrangement of rescue actions. Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi has sent a letter of condolence to his Haitian counterpart Alrich Nicolas. The Red Cross Society of China has decided to offer emergency aid to Haiti. The China International Search and Rescue Team will be leaving for Haiti immediately to carry out rescue operations. The Center for Consular Assistance and Protection of Foreign Ministry has opened 24-hour hotlines to provide information and assistance.

We believe that the Haitian people, under the leadership of their government and assistance of the international community, will overcome the current difficulties and rebuild their homes at an early date.