1. A strong earthquake with the magnitude of 8 hit Sichuan province and neighboring regions in China on May 12, 2008. The catastrophe so far has claimed 34,073 lives, including hundreds of school children under damaged houses, injured 245,108, affecting over 10 million population. The destruction of roads, water supply and other infrastructure has created major difficulties for both the survivors and rescuers.

2. The Chinese government has been mounting all-out rescue and relief efforts: A 1700-member medical rescue team have arrived in the affected areas; 5 tons of bottled water, fresh milk and instant noodles have been delivered by airlift to the most affected areas; a total of 113080 troops and police have been dispatched into the quake-hit areas, approaching the disaster-hit regions by planes, helicopters, trains, and trucks, and on foot. Aids and donations from across the country are on the way.

3. The international community has demonstrated sympathy and solidarity through condolences, donations and personnel assistance. The Chinese Embassy in Greece acknowledges with heartfelt gratitude the receipt of sympathy conveyed by the Hellenic leadership and friends, in high appreciation of the generosity of the Hellenic Government pledging assistance of 200,000 Euros to the affected areas in China. In response to the goodwill expressed by local friends and NGOs, the Embassy hereby makes public a bank account dedicated to receiving voluntary humanitarian donations. The account information is as follows:

NAME: EMBASSY OF CHINA IN GREECE

ACCOUNT NO.: 100/480267-50

IBAN NO.: GR14 0110 1000 0000 1004 8026 750

SWIFT CODE: ETHNGRAA

For Contact:

Phone: 210- 6783812, 6783816, 6783807

Fax: 210-6723283

4. We are confident that the Chinese nation, determined to overcome the difficulties and supported by international solidarity, will be united and remain strong in the rescue and reconstruction efforts.

Athens, May 19, 2008