Special report: Strong Earthquake Jolts SW China　

    BEIJING, May 15 (Xinhua) -- More leaders and officials from around the world sent messages of condolences to Chinese President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao on Wednesday, offering deep sympathies over Monday's deadly earthquake in southwest China's Sichuan province and their support for the disaster relief efforts.

    Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Wangchuck and Prime Minister Jigmi Y. Thinley conveyed their deep condolences to the Chinese government, the Chinese people and the victims' families while expressing the belief that those affected will successfully overcome the disaster and rebuild their homes.

    Swiss President Pascal Couchepin expressed sympathy to the victims and their families, and said Switzerland is ready to offer immediate assistance to China.

    The president of the French Senate, Christian Poncelet, expressed great sorrow over the huge losses of life and property in the earthquake. China will not be fighting alone, he said, as the whole international society will offer its support.

    Hungarian Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsany and his predecessor Medgyessy Peter expressed deep condolences for the dead and sincere compassion to the victims' families.

    Mongolian Prime Minister Sanj Bayar and Latvian Prime Minister Ivars Godmanis also sent messages of condolences, offering support for disaster relief and reconstruction efforts.

    Pope Benedict XVI also offered his condolences, and wished smooth progress for the rescue work.

    President Denis Sassou-Nguesso and Foreign Minister Basile Ikouebe of Congo conveyed their sincere condolences to the Chinese people.

    Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Aboul Gheit expressed the belief that under the strong leadership of the Chinese government, along with strength of purpose and all-out efforts, the Chinese people will conquer the crisis and bring their lives back to normal.

    A 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck southwest China's Sichuan province Monday afternoon, killing nearly 15,000 people. Thousands are still believed to be buried under the rubble.