(China Daily)
Updated: 2008-05-21 07:15

The United States Senate on Monday adopted a resolution to mourn the victims of the Sichuan earthquake and to convey its deep condolences and support to the Chinese people.

"The Senate mourns the horrific loss of life and terrible human suffering caused by the earthquake in the People's Republic of China on May 12, 2008," the resolution said.

The resolution was jointly submitted by Barbara Boxer, a Democratic senator from California, and Lisa Murkowski, a Republican senator from Alaska.

The Senate also expresses its "deep condolences" to the Chinese people and to all those affected by this enormous tragedy, and its "profound sorrow" for the families of all who lost their loved ones, including those who suffered the heartbreaking loss of having their children trapped in schools that collapsed.

The Senate called on President George W. Bush to respond to any requests for humanitarian assistance made by the Chinese government, saying it stands ready to support the provision of additional resources, as necessary, to assist those affected by the disaster.

A similar resolution has been introduced in the House of Representatives and is expected to be adopted this week.

The government and people of the United States have so far donated $34 million in cash and provisions to aid the relief effort.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the US government has sent an additional $1 million worth of relief materials, including food, generators, air compressors and electric cutters.

The consignment is expected to arrive by air in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan, today.

Since the earthquake hit last week, many US companies have donated cash and supplies to support the relief effort in Sichuan. Also, 26 US firms were this week reported to have donated or pledged an additional $10 million in cash and supplies following earlier donations totaling $12 million.

Xinhua-China Daily

(China Daily 05/21/2008 page5)