A photo showing a three-year-old earthquake survivor in Sichuan saluting to his rescuers has moved lots of Chinese netizens, commenting that they see the hope for China from the boy.

Premier Wen Jiabao comforts Lang Zheng at a hospital in Mianyang, Sichuan Province, during an inspection tour of quake-affected regions on Friday. The 3-year-old has become well-known since a May 13 picture showing him saluting PLA soldiers after they rescued him from the rubble was posted online.

Local newspaper Chengdu Evening News reported that the photo was taken on Tuesday in Beichuan, a badly damaged county neighboring the epicenter.

The boy Lang Zhen, who was rescued over ten hours after the quake, raised his uninjured arm weakly and saluted to the soldiers who saved his life.

Lang Zhen's behavior moved many netizens to tears. Some said the little boy is the representative of all the brave children who suffered the disaster in Sichuan. Their performances were highly praised.

"The salute is the highest praise for the rescuers," said a Chengdu citizen surnamed Guo who frequently traveled for business to the quake-hit areas.

According to Guo, children from many areas of Sichuan can receive education only from donations. They are taught to cherish the kindnesses since a young age and were always seen showing appreciations to people who helped them by salutes.

Three-year-old boy Lang Zhen salutes to soldiers when he was rescued after the earthquake in Beichuan in southwestern China's Sichuan Province on Tuesday, May 13, 2008. [Photo: Mianyang Evening News]

(Xinhua News Agency May 25, 2008)