The Prime Minister has condoled the loss of life in the earthquake in Qinghai, China. Dr.Manmohan Singh in a message to President Hu Jintao said the people of India join you in mourning the loss of lives and untold damage to property and infrastructure. He said we stand ready to render any assistance you may require.

The text of the Prime Minister´s message is as follow:

`I have learnt with deep sorrow of the devastation wrought in Qinghai province by a severe earthquake yesterday. Your Government has reacted with commendable speed in bringing medical and other assistance to the quake-afflicted people in the disaster zone.

The people and Government of India join the people of China in mourning the loss of so many lives, and the untold damage done to property and infrastructure.

As your Government rallies to the assistance of the injured and displaced, I want to assure you, Excellency, that the people of India share the grief of the people of China. We stand ready to render any assistance that you and your Government may require of us.

Please accept my sincere condolences, and the renewed assurances of my highest consideration.`