(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-05-14 09:08

BRUSSELS - Javier Solana, European Union's foreign policy chief, conveyed on Tuesday his condolences to quake victims of China following strong earthquakes hit China's Sichuan Province.

"I have just learned about the devastating earthquake that struck China, notably Sichuan province, and took the life of many thousands of Chinese citizens," he said in the message of condolences to the Chinese authorities.

"On behalf of the European Union, I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the families of the victims and the government of China," he said, adding that the EU was ready to assist.  

A strong earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale hit Wenchuan County in southwest China's Sichuan Province Monday afternoon, causing deaths, injuries and severe material damages.

As of 7 pm (1100 GMT) Tuesday, the Sichuan Province has reported 12,012 deaths in Monday's quake, according to the disaster relief center under China's State Council. At least 26, 206 people were injured, with 9,404 still buried in debris and 7, 841 missing.

The Chinese government has taken series of measures for disaster relief work though rescue work was very difficult because of cut of electricity, communication, transportation and water supply.