Help in times of trouble

China, Japan and others should strengthen solidarity and cooperation in the face of natural and man-made disasters

Up to now, the death toll and the number of people missing as a result of the magnitude-9.0 earthquake off the northeast coast of Japan and the subsequent tsunami mean it is one of the most serious crises in the history of Japan. The World Bank warns the economic cost could amount to as much as $235 billion.

After the earthquake and tsunami, Chinese leaders immediately extended their sympathy and condolences to the Japanese people. The Chinese government also sent a rescue team to Japan and provided its neighbor with emergency humanitarian aid materials and fuel.