Chinese embassies mourn quake victims

Chinese embassies and consulates overseas have also paid their tributes to the quake victims in Yushu as part of China's mourning activities.

In Russia, the Chinese embassy in Moscow started its mourning at 8 pm local time, midnight in Beijing on Tuesday. The Chinese national flag in front of the embassy was lowered to half-mast. Staff observed a three minute silence in honor of more than 2,000 victims claimed by the devastating Yushu quake.

Li Hui, Chinese ambassador to Russia, said, "The embassy and all its staff have expressed strong concern and condolences for the Yushu earthquake victims. We collected voluntary donations a couple of days ago in an effort to contribute to rescue and reconstruction work. We believe people in the quake zone will overcome all the difficulties and hardships, and rebuild their homes as soon as possible."

In Rio de Janerio, Brazil, the Chinese Consulate-general also staged mourning activities.