The Chinese Embassy in the United States observed three days of mourning from May 19 to 21 for victims of the devastating earthquake in Sichuan province, China. During the mourning period, more than 600 people came to the Embassy to express their condolences to the victims and sympathy and support to the Chinese people. Among them were President George W. Bush and other U.S. leaders, government officials, congressional members, representatives from the business, academia and press circles, and the general public and representatives from diplomatic missions of foreign countries and international organizations, as well as the Chinese communities in the United States. Many more American people from various walks of life expressed condolences through phone calls or mails. The Chinese Embassy would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the U.S. government and people and the Chinese communities in the country.

Through unswerving efforts, initial quake relief work has achieved major results. But the situation remained severe with daunting tasks ahead. On the next phase of relief work, search and rescue operations for the survivors should continue, but more importance should be attached to the resettlement of quake-affected people, restoration of production and reconstruction. It is our firm belief that, under the leadership of the Chinese government, with the help and support of the international community, the Chinese people will by all means overcome the massive natural disaster and help people in the quake-hit areas rebuild their homes.