Russian President Medvedev, in a speech this afternoon at Peking University, first extended his most sincere condolences to the friendly Chinese people for the disaster they have suffered.
At the start of his speech, Medvedev said, "First, allow me to express my most sincere condolences to the friendly Chinese people for the disaster they have suffered. The Russian people feel great sorrow over this and are doing their best to provide your country with the necessary assistance to overcome the consequences of this massive earthquake."
He then went on to say that twenty days ago, Peking University celebrated its 110th anniversary, and he would like to extend热烈 (lively) congratulations on this occasion.