Hu Jintao expresses concern for children

Sunday marks International Children's Day. Chinese President Hu Jintao has brought his best wishes to quake-affected children during an inspection tour in northwestern Shaanxi province, one of the areas outside of Sichuan Province that was rocked by the recent massive earthquake.

The well-being and education of children in quake-ravaged areas is one of the top concerns for the Chinese president.

During his visit to Shaanxi province on Saturday, Hu Jintao dropped in on a tent school in Jinshansi village. Nearly all of the houses were flattened in this area.

President Hu brought the children a very special wish for a happy Children's Day along with a pledge to help build a new school.

Hu said, "Today you have to study in a tent. But I promise you that the party and the government will help you build a new school. You will be sure to have a better environment for study."

The president then wrote sixteen Chinese characters - translated as "One in trouble, all to help; Rely on ourselves and work hard."

President Hu told the children that this spirit should be remembered during post-quake rebuilding efforts. He also praised the children for their courage.

Hu said, "Many children were very brave and strong while facing the threats of the recent massive earthquake. I have learned from you and see the hope of the quake-ravaged areas and the whole country. I believe you will strive to become stronger and work hard in the future."

Hu Jintao then visited a local medical camp. He asked about the conditions of the patients, wishing them a quick recovery.

The Chinese president also expressed his appreciation for medical workers doing their best to treat those injured people. He urged them to continue working as hard as they can to help the local people.

News soon spread about President Hu's visit and many villagers came to see him.

President Hu said, "We are thinking of you and we are concerned about your difficulties. Please don't worry, the party and the government will try to do everything we can to help get you settled and rebuild your homes. We will pull through this hard time with support and assistance from the government and people from around the country as well as your own efforts."

Hu Jintao said the country must first solve its most pressing challenge of securing urgent housing. He says more tents and mobile houses should be transported to the quake zones. And then more locals can settle down and children can go to school.