The Chinese Embassy in Manila conveyed yesterday the gratitude of the Chinese government and people for the “condolences, sympathies, concern, support and willingness to help” expressed by the Philippine government and people.
“We are deeply touched by the kindness and friendly sentiments of the Philippine people to the people of the quake-stricken area and the Chinese people as a whole,” the embassy said in a statement. “It fully demonstrates that our two peoples are not only good neighbors and friends, but also good brothers and relatives. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, we would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to the Philippine leaders and people who have expressed their condolences, sympathies, concern, support and willingness to help,” said the Chinese Embassy.
The embassy also started yesterday coordinating with concerned agencies in China to facilitate Philippine assistance and support for earthquake victims in China.
“We believe, under the strong leadership of the Chinese government, and with the concerted efforts of the Chinese people and great support from the international community including the Philippines, the people in the quake-stricken area will overcome the difficulties and reconstruct their homeland as soon as possible,” the embassy said in a statement.
Shortly after the powerful earthquake last May 12 in Southwest China’s Sichuan province that killed thousands and caused heavy damage to property, Filipinos expressed through the Chinese Embassy their sympathy, support and willingness to help the quake victims and their families.
President Arroyo sent a letter of condolence to Chinese President Hu Jintao and ordered the deployment of a medical team to the disaster area.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo has sent a letter to Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi expressing sympathy and support.
Sen. Richard Gordon, chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross, has offered his condolences in a letter to Ambassador Song Tao and filed a resolution at the Senate expressing sympathy for the earthquake victims.
The Chinese-Filipino community has also extended its concern and support to the victims and their families.