HK, Macao SAR chief executives visit quake-hit Sichuan

Chief executives of the Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions, Donald Tsang and Edmund Ho Hau Wah, have visited quake-hit Sichuan Province. In the cities of Pengzhou and Dujiangyan, the two SAR leaders were devastated by the tragic scenes, but were also moved by the strength and spirit of local residents.

Donald Tsang and Edmund Ho arrived at Jiangqiao Village in Pengzhou City on Saturday. Many villagers had been sitting outside their makeshift houses, waiting for the visitors, since early in the morning. The two chief executives toured some residents' homes. They asked people if they had access to basic necessities, and enquired about the survivors' children. They then visited a local school where classes have recently resumed.

Donald Tsang said, "Dear students, I'm Donald Tsang from Hong Kong. I'm really happy the central government and Sichuan authorities gave me this opportunity to come and visit you. Hong Kong and the whole of China are here to support you."

Edmund Ho said, "And I'm Edmund Ho from Macao. The over 500-thousand people of Macao are here for you. Please extend our greetings to all students in Sichuan affected by the quake. We wish you the best of luck in your studies...and a good life."

Tsang and Ho also inspected the ruins in downtown Dujiangyan city. They said that although the disaster caused irreversible damage to Sichuan, they are confident the Chinese people will remain united and work for a better future.