Maldives was struck by a massive tsunami which inflicted heavy casualties and property loss. President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao of the State Council sent messages to President Maumoon Abdull Gayoom of the Republic of Maldives, expressing sincere condolences to the victims and offering deep sympathy to the victimized families on behalf of the Chinese government and people. They expressed the confidence that the government and people of Maldives will be able to overcome the disaster and difficulties to rebuild their homes and restore the work and life in the disaster-hit areas at an early date.