On Monday, May 12, 2008, José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission sent a message of condolences to Premier Wen Jiabao following the devastating earthquake.

Following is the whole message:

Message from H.E. José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission to H.E. Premier Wen Jiabao concerning the Earthquake in Sichuan

I am following with great concern the news of the severe earthquake that hit Wenchuan County in Sichuan Province earlier today. I understand that there are a great number of victims and that you are personally leading the relief efforts. I would like to convey to you my condolences for the victims and their families, and the solidarity of the people of Europe with the people of China at this moment. The European Union is ready to support your work in whatever way it can, and our humanitarian experts are already on standby to assist, if the need arises.

(China.org.cn May 14, 2008)