Chinese students and scholars in Italy have donated more than 45,000 euros (US$71,000) for the victims of an devastating earthquake which hit Sichuan Province last month, the Chinese Students and Scholars Union in Italy (CSSUI) said on Saturday.

Soon after the quake his southwestern China on May 12, Chinese students living in Italy took prompt actions and raised funds for the quake victims, said Pei Yuezhou, chairman of the CSSUI.

On its Website, the CSSUI established a BBS to ensure the effectiveness and transparency in the use of the donations.

Many Chinese nationals residing in Italy and local people also made contributions.

(Xinhua News Agency June 29, 2008)