The China Red Cross Society (CRCS) has so far received donations worth 20 million yuan (about US$2.4 million), to support the fight against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).

CRCS vice-president Wang Lizhong made the announcement at a donation ceremony held in Beijing Thursday to mark World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day and the 140th anniversary of the International Red Cross Campaign.

The ceremony also aimed to call on people from all walks of life to jointly combat SARS, Wang said.

Wang said the CRCS, as a non-governmental organization extending humanitarian aid, has played an active role in combating SARS. Since hotlines were announced on April 28, CRCS staff have been working round the clock, answering questions from the public concerning donations and SARS prevention, Wang said.

In the meantime, the CRCS called on the Red Cross at all levels to coordinate with government administrations to receive and extend donations in accordance with the Law of the People's Republic of China on the Red Cross Society.

At the ceremony, the CRCS commended 16 enterprises and companies which have made great contributions.

CRCS 24-hour hotlines: 65139999, 65135933

Bank for donations: China Industrial and Commercial Bank, Dongsinan Branch in Beijing

Account number: 02000010090144132-52

(Xinhua News Agency May 8, 2003)