The Foreign Ministry says China welcomes the international community's goodwill and support. It also says it has no reports of any foreign casualties so far.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said the central government is highly concerned about the safety of foreigners in China. He said it is currently difficult to obtain timely information since the quake has damaged parts of the traffic and communications systems.
He said the Foreign Ministry will stay in touch with all the foreign embassies in China to share their information.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said, "So far, the ministry has not received any reports about casualties of foreigners in the earthquake-affected areas."
Meanwhile, Vice Foreign Minister Wang Yi said China has not officially issued an appeal for aid from the international community. He said such a call will depend on how the situation develops.
Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Wang Yi said, "China appreciates the goodwill offered by the international community. However, the government can not yet get complete information about the quake-hit areas. China will be in contact with those countries and organizations if necessary."
The Foreign Ministry also expressed its condolences to Myanmar in the wake of Cyclone Nargis. China will continue to send aid and supplies to the country.
(CCTV May 14, 2008)