International organizations as well as countries have been responding swiftly to China's appeal for help. Upon China's request, the International Maritime Satellite Organization has widened the wavelength over Sichuan, and some countries have shared satellite pictures with China. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of tents from abroad have been rushed to the affected regions.

Up to 17:00 Beijing time (0900 GMT) Friday, heads of state and government, parliamentary leaders, officials of international organizations and people from all walks of life from 153 countries visited Chinese embassies, consulates or missions to mourn the victims of the earthquake.

Ever since the news of the earthquake broke out, public opinions as well as media around the world, besides extending full sympathy for China, have expressed their high respect for the rescue and relief efforts carried out by China itself.

All in all, such an unprecedented natural disaster as what happened in Sichuan has made people in the world care more for each other and humanitarianism, which is nature to us human beings, shines more than ever. Just as the lyrics of a Chinese song go, the world will be better off if everyone can give more care to others.

(Xinhua News Agency May 24, 2008)