The U.S. House of the Representatives unanimously passed a resolution Tuesday, pledging full support to China's relief efforts after the devastating earthquake in Sichuan, China.
"The House of Representatives extends its condolences and sympathy to the people of the People's Republic of China for the grave loss of life and vast destruction caused by the massive earthquake centered in Sichuan Province," said the resolution.
It also vowed "full support for the people of the People's Republic of China as well as the members of the Chinese American community in the United States who have relatives in the affected areas of China."
The resolution also said the House is confident "that the people of the People's Republic of China will come together to help those in need and succeed in overcoming the hardships incurred because of this tragedy."
Representative David Wu of Oregon, who sponsored the resolution, said in a statement that "while the 1.3 billion people across China unite in grief for 3 days of mourning, it is fitting that this body expresses our deepest sympathies. With this resolution, we offer our condolences to the people of China as they cope with this awful tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with them."
The No. 1195 resolution is cosponsored by 31 members of the House, including Majority leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland, Majority Whip James Clyburn of South Carolina and Minority Whip Roy Blunt of Missouri.
Previously, the U.S. Senate on Monday adopted a similar resolution to mourn the victims of the earthquake in Sichuan, China.
(Xinhua News Agency May 21, 2008)
