Many foreign countries and organizations have expressed sympathy to China over Monday's earthquake. Messages have come from the US, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Laos, Russia, Australia, German, Italy, Poland, Romania, Bhutan, Iran, Jordan, Pakistan, Israel, Jamaica, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia and the European Union. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon also expressed sympathy for the victims. Meanwhile, Japan, South Korea, and Australia said on Tuesday they're ready to send emergency aid.

Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd extended his sympathy to those affected by the earthquake.

A top government spokesman says Japan is getting ready to provide rescue and medical assistance, as well as supplies such as food and blankets, depending on China's requests.

Nobutaka Machimura, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary said "In a condolence message by the Prime Minister, he stated that Japan is ready to provide all necessary assistance."

South Korea's Foreign Ministry is also discussing aid with with the Chinese government.

Cho Yun-Soo, Spokesman of South Korean Foreign Ministry said "Once China and South Korean government agree on the emergency aid, emergency relief goods can be delivered in a day or two, and about 40 emergency rescue workers and about 20 medical teams are standing by to leave for China."

Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd extended his sympathy to those affected by the earthquake.

Kevin Rudd, Australian PM said "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. Australia stands ready to offer assistance."

US President George W. Bush also says his country stands ready to help China in any way possible.

An official of Wenchuan County, the epicenter of the earthquake, appealed for emergency aid via satellite phone early on Tuesday. He said they are in urgent need of tents, food, medicine and satellite communications equipment through air drop.

(CCTV May 14, 2008)