Pelosi Statement on Earthquake Tragedy in China

Contact:Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the massive earthquake that struck western China's Sichuan Province today, killing at least 8,500 people, with thousands more feared dead:

"On behalf of all of my colleagues in the House of Representatives, I offer my deepest condolences to the Chinese people and all those who lost loved ones in the powerful earthquake that struck China's Sichuan Province. I hope it is some comfort to all of those affected by this terrible tragedy that so many throughout the world are thinking of them and praying for them at this difficult time.

"When catastrophes such as these strike, rescue operations need strong support as they go about their missions of saving lives and delivering hope to where it is desperately needed. The international community must respond immediately and vigorously to this most recent natural disaster in Asia."