Chinese ambassador first to offer aid

Wu Chuntai, the Chinese ambassador to Nepal, was the first foreign diplomat to walk into the Nepali central government after Saturday's earthquake. Only one hour had passed, and the building was nearly empty and in darkness.

"When I told Deputy Prime Minister Bamdev Gautam that the Chinese government is willing to provide assistance for Nepal, he soon issued a diplomatic note allowing chartered flights carrying Chinese rescue personnel and relief goods into Nepal," Wu said.

Now, five days after the earthquake, hundreds of Chinese rescuers organized by the government, the Chinese army and NGOs are working in Nepal.