国内英语新闻:Chinese premier expresses sympathies over bushfire in Australia

BEIJING, Oct. 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang Friday sent a message to his Australian counterpart Tony Abbott over the current unfolding bushfire crisis in New South Wales of Australia.

In the message, Li said that he was astonished to learn of the serious bushfire in Australia, and of the tremendous losses sustained to the life of people and property.

Li said that he, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, and in his own name, expresses sincere sympathies to the Australian government and people over the mishap.

Li also said he believes that under the leadership of Tony Abbott and the Australian government, Australia will definitely be able to overcome the difficulties arising from the bushfire and exert the greatest efforts to minimize losses from the natural disaster.

The premier pledged that China is willing to provide necessary assistance to Australia for disaster relief in accordance with the need of Australia.