A neighbor and a friend in need

Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee said: "A friend in need is a real friend. Please do not hesitate to approach us for any assistance that you may require."

The news of the deadly earthquake that hit Sichuan on the fateful afternoon of May 12, was received with shock and deep sorrow by more than 1 billion Indian people.

Our thoughts were constantly with the affected people of Sichuan, including the young, innocent, school children, and we were anxious to lend a helping hand.