The Chinese government firmly supports the Russian government and people's efforts to maintain national unity and territorial integrity and to insure the safety of the citizens.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao made the remark in an interview with Russia's Interfax News Agency and the Itar-Tass News Agency on Sept. 12 before his visit to Russia.

Wen said he hopes the two news agencies could convey his greetings to the Russian people, his condolences for the innocent victims of the recent terrorist activities and his sympathy to their families and all the Russian people. He also expressed strong condemnation to the recent terrorist activities and kidnappings.

Wen quoted the Russian aphorism that suffering is halved if shared by two.

"The Chinese government and people are ready to, as much as they can, assist the Russian government and people when the Russian people are in difficulties," he said.

"We believe that under the leadership of President Vladimir Putin and the Russian government, the Russian people will overcome the current difficulties, maintain national stability and security and achieve further progress in economic and social development," he said.

Wen left Beijing Tuesday morning to visit Kyrgyzstan and Russia and attend the third meeting of prime ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states and the ninth regular meeting between prime ministers of China and Russia.

During his stay in Russia, Wen is scheduled to meet with President Vladimir Putin, speak with Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov and confers with State Duma Chairman Boris Cryzlov and Federation Council Chairman Sergei Mironov.

(Xinhua News Agency September 21, 2004)