China expresses appreciation for int'l quake-relief aid

BEIJING, June 30 (Xinhua) -- China is grateful to the support and assistance provided by the international community for its quake-relief efforts, the State Council said in a proclamation on Monday. An 8-magnitude earthquake hit Wenchuan, in southwest China's Sichuan Province, at 2:28 p.m. (0628 GMT) on May 12, 2008, causing enormous losses of life and property, the proclamation said. It said that when the Chinese people were suffering the catastrophe, the international community voiced sincere sympathy and condolences and provided support and assistance in various forms, which fully embodies the nobility of humanitarianism and the friendship to the Chinese people. "The Chinese government and people express their heartfelt thanks to all the governments, institutions, individuals, international organizations and overseas... [read full story]