Q: After the Wenchuan earthquake, the Japanese Government and people from all walks of life expressed their sympathy to China and offered assistance. Soon after Iwate Prefecture of Japan was hit by earthquake today, Chinese leaders sent message of condolence to the Japanese side. In his recent speech on Japan's Asian diplomacy and Asia-Pacific policy, Prime Minister Fukuda proposed the establishment of "Asian disaster and disease prevention network". Is China willing to strengthen cooperation with Japan in disaster prevention? Also, is there any progress on the East China Sea talks between China and Japan?

A: China expresses its heartfelt thanks to the Japanese Government and people for their expression of sincere sympathy and offer of assistances in various kinds to China after the Wenchuan earthquake. When Iwate Prefecture of Japan was hit by earthquake today, President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao sent message of condolence to Prime Minister Fukuda. Based on the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries on joint commitment to the Asia-Pacific development, China is willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with Japan in Asian affairs, including cooperation in disaster prevention so as to bring benefits to the two peoples and peoples of all Asian countries.

As for the East China Sea issue, the two sides are holding close consultation on details. Both sides agree to speed up relevant work.