On May 11, 2009, Chinese President Hu Jintao met in Chengdu with envoys and representatives of some countries and international organizations, who came to attend the activities marking the anniversary of last year's devastating earthquake in the southwestern Sichuan Province.

Hu, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, expressed once again his appreciation of the international community for its strong support and valuable aid in the wake of last year's devastating earthquake in southwest China. Facing the grave disaster, Chinese armed forces and Chinese people worked as one and struggled in unity in rescue work and disaster relief, Hu told those diplomats. The international community extended their helping hands as governments, groups and individuals from more than 160 countries as well as some international organizations offered a large amount of fund and material assistance via different channels. Some countries sent rescue teams and doctors to help the Chinese people in the quake-hit areas. "The assistance from the international community strongly supported China's disaster relief and reconstruction efforts and showcased grand humanitarianism and sincere friendship with the Chinese people," Hu said.

Hu briefed the diplomats on China's reconstruction work, saying it has been carried out in a strong, orderly and effective manner and recorded staged success. "After one year of hard working, the quake-hit areas witnessed the resumption of and development in their social and economic construction," Hu noted. The production and living conditions in those areas were improving and the people were working hard to build better lives and new homes, said the head of state. Hu thanked the international community for their support and aid, saying the money and materials have been used in various fields such as rebuilding of homes, roads, schools, hospitals and other important infrastructure. China has carried out "vigorous overseeing" and "effectively used" the donation from the international community, Hu told the diplomats. "We will strive to use the international donation in the places most in need," he said.

Hu labeled the cooperation between China and the world as "a good example of international cooperation in disaster relief." "The most important revelation is that, in face of grave natural disasters, the international community could support each other, enhance cooperation, join hands and jointly tackle the difficulties," Hu said. "The Chinese government and people will step up exchange and cooperation with the international community, jointly tackle various global challenges and push for the building of a harmonious world featuring long-lasting peace and common prosperity," Hu said.

On behalf of the foreign diplomats, Nolana Ta Ama, ambassador of the Republic of Togo and dean of the diplomatic corp to China, thanked for being invited to the occasion. Ama spoke highly of the dauntless spirit displayed by the Chinese government and people in face of the grave natural disaster, as well as their aspiration for international cooperation. "We are encouraged by the enormous achievements that China has made in post-quake restoration and reconstruction," said Ama, pledging that the international community will continue to support and help the affected regions.

Li Keqiang, Ling Jihua and Wang Huning attended the meeting.