Q: Recently the Philippines has been hit by an array of strong tropical storms, which resulted in heavy loss of lives and properties. The Philippine side has called for international assistances. Is China going to offer any aids?

A: We express our deep sympathy for Philippines' being hit by strong tropical storm. Recently, President Hu Jintao expressed his solicitudes to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo via telephone. The Chinese Government has already offered US$ 500,000 in cash to the Philippine side. As a further token of China's friendship with the Philippines, and to help the Philippine Government and its people fight the calamity and relieve the distress, the Chinese Government has decided to provide another US$ 200,000 to the Philippine Government. We hope the people in the disaster area to tide over the calamities at an early date and rebuild their homeland.