Special report: Strong Earthquake Jolts SW China

Residents set up anti-quake tents with the wood sticks found in the quake ruins in Fengxiangyuan Village, Fengxiang Township, Wudu District of Longnan City, northwest China's Gansu Province, May 21, 2008. After the May 12 quake, residents in Wudu district started to reconstruct their homes. (Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

China sets up expert panel for quake relief, reconstruction

    BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) -- China set up on Wednesday a 30-member expert committee that is intended to offer scientific advice on the massive work of quake relief and reconstruction.

    The committee, working under the leadership of the State Council's earthquake relief headquarters, has experts from 22 disciplines, from seismology and geology to civil engineering and hydrology. Full story

China to allocate 70 bln yuan for reconstruction of quake-hit regions

    BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao announced here on Wednesday the central government will allocate 70 billion yuan (10.14 billion U.S. dollars) this year for the establishment of a reconstruction fund for the quake-hit regions.

    He also pledged to arrange funds for the reconstruction in next two years. Full story