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Chinese president visits earthquake hit area

16/05/2008

Chinese president Hu Jintao has visited the south-western Sichuan Province, where as many as 50,000 people are feared dead after Monday's earthquake.

Rescue work to free people potentially trapped in the rubble of houses and buildings has entering its "most crucial stage" the Xinhua state-run news agency reports Mr Hu as saying.

Nearly 20,000 people have been confirmed dead in the region so far with many more still missing.

"The challenge is still severe, the task is still arduous and the time is pressing," said Mr Hu.

"We must make every effort, race against time and overcome all difficulties to achieve the final victory of the relief efforts."

Mr Hu spoke to reporters after arriving in Mianyang today, one of the worst-hit cities, after viewing the massive relief work being undertaken and meeting with troops and medical staff.

International aid and support has also begun arriving today with teams of experts arriving from Japan, Russia, South Korea and Singapore.

Chinese premier Wen Jiabao said rescuing survivors was now their main focus.

"Saving lives is still our top priority, as long as hope of survival still exists," he said.

The Red Cross has issued an emergency appeal for food, water and medical supplies for the Chinese survivors.