China's senior leaders gave a high praise of the front-line medical staff for their efforts and bravery in combating Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao has shown great concern for the death of Liang Shikui, a front-line doctor with the People's Hospital of north China's Shanxi Province.

Wen said, numerous medical workers have made selfless contributions and displayed humanitarian spirits in the fight against SARS.

He called on further determination and endeavors among medical staff to achieve the final victory in beating the disease.

Chinese vice-president Zeng Qinghong also spoke highly of the lofty professional ethics and great dedication shown by the health-care staff working in the front line against SARS in Beijing's Sino-Japanese Friendship Hospital.

Zeng encouraged all health-care workers to keep up their confidence and efforts in the battle with the disease.

(Xinhua News Agency April 29, 2003)