(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-05-15 04:20

LUSAKA -- Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa has sent a message of condolences to his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao on the death of over 10,000 people in an earthquake.

Mwanawasa said he learnt with sadness the death of over 10,000 in the earthquake that occurred on Monday in southwest China's Sichuan Province,  Zambia News and Information Services reported Wednesday.

Mwanawasa's message of condolences is contained in a statement signed by Special Assistant to the President for Press and Public Relations John Musukuma made available in Lusaka Wednesday.

"We wish to encourage your government and all those at hand to compliment your efforts to continue the search for those who are missing," said the statement.

Mwanawasa said Zambian people share the grief of those who lost their beloved family members in the earthquake.