The Government of China has expressed gratitude towards the international community for the timely intervention to help the people of China after a 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck the northwest province of Qinghai earlier this month.

In a statement released on Monday, the Government of China thanked Rwanda and other countries around the world and international organisations that extended support to the people of China.

The strong earthquake left 1,944 people dead, 216 people missing and 12,135 injured. While 100,000 were made homeless.

"Many countries and organizations presented their will to assist China in the relief work by support of rescue workers or donations, which reflects their friendship to Chinese people,”

"The Chinese government thanks sincerely the International Community for its support. We believe that with the concerted efforts by the Chinese people and support from international community, people in the disastrous area can overcome the disaster and rebuild a better life.” the statement reads. 

After the earthquake, Chinese President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao responded immediately and urged all-out efforts to save lives and provide assistance to people affected.

In order to participate in the relief work, President Hu Jintao postponed visits to Venezuela and Chile and Premier Wen Jiabao postponed a scheduled visit to Brunei, Indonesia and Myanmar.

The relief work is being carried out on a large scale and in an orderly and effective fashion. The Chinese government has mobilized forces and resources extensively. Relief goods are pouring into the affected areas.

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