Chinese aid for Katrina victims on its way
By Qin Jize (China Daily)
Updated: 2005-09-08 05:39

A China Southern cargo plane carrying the country's first batch of emergency supplies for US Hurricane Katrina victims left Beijing for Houston yesterday afternoon.

Relief materials for the victims of Hurricane Katrina from the Chinese government are put into an aeroplane in Beijing airport September 7, 2005. China has offered $5 million in aid for victims and Beijing said the government was prepared to send rescue workers including medical experts if needed. [newsphoto]

The freight was wrapped in plastic sheeting, and marked with the words "China donation" and Chinese national flags.

Sources at Beijing Customs said that the second batch of relief materials would be on its way in a few days.

Wang Hanjiang, head of the Department for Foreign Aid under the Ministry of Commerce, said China would send more supplies to the US hurricane-hit regions "if needed."

He said the move reflects Chinese people's sympathy and goodwill towards the American people.

Visiting Commander of US Pacific Command Admiral William Fallon said yesterday in Beijing that he was very appreciative of the generosity of the Chinese Government and people.

He said he was particularly touched by the assistance since China itself suffered substantial casualties and damages from Typhoon Talim only a few days ago.