International leaders have expressed their sympathy to those affected by the earthquake in China and promised assistance to the country.

Chinese President Hu Jintao and his U.S. counterpart George W. Bush held a telephone conversation Tuesday. Bush said the United States expressed deep concerns over the quake and sympathy toward the Chinese people, and is willing to provide any possible assistance for disaster relief.

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has conveyed his sympathy to the victims of the earthquake in China.

''I want to take this opportunity to express my sadness and sympathy for victims of today's earthquake in Southwest China. The United Nations and my thoughts are very much with them and their family.''

In a statement issued later, he said his organization stands ready to support the government of China in its efforts to respond to the humanitarian needs caused by the disaster.

Foreign countries and organizations have also offered condolence to China.

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd says Australia stands ready to offer assistance.

"On behalf of all Australians, I extend our sympathy to those affected by the earthquake in China. I have written to Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao this morning expressing this and offering Australian assistance, including search and rescue capabilities of the states and territories of Australia through Emergency Management Australia. This is being followed up directly by Chinese officials."

Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda said he hoped that people affected by the quake can resume their normal lives and reconstruct their homes soon. And he also said Japan was ready to provide relief to the victims. Masahiko Komura is the Japanese Foreign Minister.

"The Japanese government is ready to offer any kind of support. We have already expressed this to China."

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh expressed his belief that the Chinese people will overcome the difficulties.

European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso sent a message of condolences to Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao expressing his condolences for the victims and the solidarity of the people of Europe with the Chinese people.