The International Olympic Committee (IOC) expresses its deepest sympathies to the many thousands of people whose lives and livelihoods have been affected by the Chinese earthquake. In response to this tragic event, the IOC has announced a commitment of RMB 7 million (USD $1million) in financial support for relief and recovery efforts in the affected regions.

The donation will be channelled through BOCOG, the Beijing Organising Committee for the 2008 Olympic Games, who will distribute support to the appropriate relief organisations. "I feel deeply for those affected and join in solidarity with the people of China," said IOC President Jacques Rogge. "This appears to be a major disaster, the scale of which is only just becoming apparent. We send our deepest felt condolences to the victims and their families."