China's Hu visits disaster area, helps soldiers load relief supplies

GUILIN, Guangxi, Feb. 6 (Xinhua) -- President Hu Jintao made another visit to a disaster area ahead of the Spring Festival, China's most important holiday, and this time, he offered a helping hand.

At an airport in southern Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on Tuesday, Hu removed his coat and joined a squad of soldiers who were loading relief supplies onto a helicopter.

"Weather conditions have been volatile these days. Not only do you need to fulfill your flight missions, but you must also ensure your safety," Hu told the soldiers who were delivering the supplies to people in regions hard hit by severe weather.

The president urged the soldiers to fight against difficulties and fatigue and contribute to achieving a victory over the disaster.

At a local supermarket, Hu asked about market supplies and commodity prices, urging managers to ensure food supply and keep prices stable.

In his visit to model workers later on Tuesday, Hu shook hands with each of them, including one whose hand was in bandages.

Hu praised them for doing their best in fighting the disaster despite "difficulties and danger" and serving as role models in relief work. "As long as we make concerted efforts, we will definitely overcome the difficulties and achieve victory," he said.