European Commission President Romano Prodi on Wednesday voiced support for China's fight against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), saying that the European Union (EU) stands shoulder to shoulder with China.

"We wholeheartedly support China's efforts to control and fight the disease. The European Union is ready to provide China with assistance that may be needed in combating SARS," Prodi said in a message sent to Chinese President Hu Jintao.

Prodi said that China, as the country most severely affected by the epidemic, is bearing the brunt of the disease's impact, and is at the forefront of global efforts to contain, and combat the deadly illness as the world is confronting the first major global health threat of the new century -- the outbreak of SARS.

He also called for concerted efforts of the world health community to tackle the global challenge.

Prodi also expressed his deepest sympathy with the Chinese government and the Chinese people, as well as condolences to the victims and their families.

(People's Daily 1, 2003)