Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan Monday urged overseas Chinese, including entrepreneurs, to join in reconstruction of regions damaged by the May 12 earthquake.

At a meeting with leading overseas Chinese entrepreneurs who had just finished a three-day tour to the worst-hit Sichuan Province, Wang said it was necessary to carry forward the great spirit of uniting as one, putting people first and respecting science, which was demonstrated by the Chinese people in rescue and relief work following the 8.0-magnitude earthquake.

After the quake which left over 69,000 people dead, overseas Chinese rushed to make charitable donations, including cash and goods, for victims of the quake, the vice premier said.

The Communist Party of China and the State Council (cabinet) highly appreciated overseas Chinese people's benevolent behaviors and righteous actions after the earthquake, said Wang.

He said post-quake reconstruction was underway and overseas Chinese, including entrepreneurs, were welcomed to give their advice and participate in reconstruction work to help quake-affected people resume production and rebuild their homes as soon as possible.

During July 4-6, more than 20 well-known overseas Chinese entrepreneurs visited Sichuan Province to seek investment opportunities during ongoing reconstruction.

(Xinhua News Agency July 8, 2008)