PHNOM PENH, Jan. 16 (Xinhua) -- The Cambodian government announced on Saturday that it has decided to contribute 50,000 U.S. dollars for the relief efforts to the people of Haiti.

    Along with a message of condolence of Prime Minister Hun Sen, "the Royal Government of Cambodia has decided to contribute 50,000 U.S. dollars for the relief to the people of Haiti who are facing great suffering from this colossal natural disaster," the release of the Ministry of Foreing Affairs said.

    Prime Minister Hun Sen on Thursday sent a message of condolence to his Haiti counterpart, expressing the mourning of the Royal Government of Cambodia and its people for the death of Haiti people in the strong earthquake.

    A 7-magnitude earthquake hit Haiti on Jan. 12, causing thousands of deaths and injuries and extensive destruction, while many people are left without shelters and are in need of food and medicines.