On the occasion of the first anniversary of the “5.12” earthquake in Wenchuan, President Lee Myung-bak of the Republic of Korea sent a letter of condolence to Chinese President Hu Jintao, once again expressing his deep condolence to the Chinese government and people.

President Lee Myung-bak said that he had visited the disaster-stricken areas and he still felt deeply sorrowful. In the face of this enormous disaster, the Chinese government promptly adopted a series of relief and rescue measures. The Chinese people were fortitudinous, courageous, and united. All the scenes were still vivid in his mind. The Republic of Korea and China joined hands to combat the disastrous earthquake and seized the chance to become close neighbors through thick and thin. He believed that this would be the basis for the two countries to develop strategic partnership.

President Lee Myung-bak expressed the hope that under the leadership of President Hu Jintao, the Chinese people, united as one, can rebuild their homes soon. He also said that the government of the Republic of Korea was willing to provide assistance.