President of the United States George W. Bush says he has been impressed by China's firm response to the May 12 earthquake and is happy with the progress of the relief efforts.

Bush made the remarks during a meeting at the headquarters of the American Red Cross focusing on the US response to the quake that hit China's Sichuan province last month.

"Just know the American people care about the people of China. When a brother and sister hurts, we care about it."

President Bush also praised non-governmental organizations, the business sector and charities in the States for their donations in response to the earthquake.

In addition, Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, chairwoman of the American Red Cross, announced at the roundtable meeting that the organization will provide an additional 10 million US dollars to support China's quake relief and recovery efforts.

"I think that was just an opportunity for an understanding of what the long-term reconstruction needs are and how we potentially can work together as both the non-profit organizations and the business community to make sure that we send the right products and the right services."

China's ambassador to the United States Zhou Wenzhong briefed the meeting on the current situation in Sichuan and long-term relief and reconstruction needs.

The participants included top US officials and leaders from US non-governmental organizations, the business sector and charities.

The meeting was hosted by the American Red Cross, Business Roundtable and the US Chamber of Commerce.