The President of the Republic addressed a message of condolences to his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao over the victims of the earthquake which devastated the Chinese province of Qinghai.

Following is the text of the President of the Republic’s message:

"Mister President,

It was with deep sorrow that I received the news of the tragic consequences of the earthquake which devastated the Chinese province of Qinghai. In this difficult moment I wish to address Your Excellency, to the victims’ families and to the People of China, on behalf of the People of Portugal and in my own personal name, our deepest feelings of regret and compassion.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva"