More leaders and officials from around the world sent messages of condolence to the Chinese leaders Thursday, offering deep sympathy over Monday's deadly earthquake in southwest China's Sichuan Province and support for the disaster relief efforts.

Cameroon's President Paul Biya and Prime Minister Ephraim Inoni conveyed their sincere condolences to the Chinese government, saying that they believed the Chinese people will successfully overcome the disaster and rebuild their homes.

Mozambican President Armando Guebuza expressed deep sympathy to the victims and their families as well as admiration for China's quick response to the disaster.

Chadian President Idriss Deby expressed great sorrow over the huge losses of life and property in the earthquake, extending solace and staunch support to the people affected by the quake.

President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Joseph Kabila also expressed deep sympathy to the Chinese people on behalf of his people.

On behalf of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, the government and its people, Ugandan Prime Minister Apolo Nsibambi expressed sincere sympathy to the Chinese government and its people over the devastating earthquake.

Zambian former president Kenneth David Kaunda sent his sympathies to China and believes that under the leadership of the Chinese government, the Chinese people will overcome the disaster.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez extended deep condolences for the victims of the disaster and said Venezuela is willing to offer help.

Romanian Prime Minister Calin Popescu-Tariceanu conveyed his deep sympathies to the Chinese people and the victims' families.

Other government officials including Jean Asselborn, Luxemburg's deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs, Patricia Espinosa, foreign minister of Mexico, and Syed Hamid Albar, foreign minister of Malaysia, also extended their sympathies to the Chinese government and its people and expressed condolences for the victims.

A 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck southwest China's Sichuan Province Monday afternoon, killing more than 19,000 people so far. Thousands are still believed to be buried under the rubble.

(Xinhua News Agency May 16, 2008)