Chinese President Hu Jintao has sent a message of condolence to his Chilean counterpart, saying China is ready to offer emergency relief assistance to the country.

US President Barack Obama says his country is also on standby to offer help.

Barack Obama, US President, said, "The United States stands ready to assist in the rescue and recovery efforts and we have resources that are positioned to deploy should the Chilean government ask for our help. Chile is a close friend and partner of the United States and I've reached out to President Bachelet to let her know that we will be there for her should the Chilean people need assistance."

The international community is responding quickly to the quake. The UN says it's monitoring developments, and is ready to provide immediate assistance. Latin American leaders have also expressed their support for the quake-struck country.

Rafael Correa, Ecuadorian President, said, "We are willing to give anything we can unconditionally. We are poor but have a great heart. We have solidarity. Our Chilean brothers know they can count on us for whatever they need."