May 15, 2008

The Honorable Wang Hongju
Mayor of Chongqing
Chongqing Municipal People's Government
Renmin Road, Yuzhong District
Chongqing 400010
China

Dear Mayor Wang,

We were deeply saddened to hear of the extensive damage and loss of life caused by the recent earthquake in Sichuan Province. We send our condolences for the unfortunate loss of life and destruction caused by the tragic event.

We are concerned as well about the extent of the disaster's impact on the people of Chongqing and the surrounding region. We are all hoping and praying that the damage in your city was minimal.

The people of Seattle understand the danger that earthquakes pose, in part because our own city is vulnerable to this threat. If we can be of any immediate assistance to the City of Chongqing during this crisis, please let us know. After immediate needs have been met, we might consider future exchanges and emergency response best practices. Seattle has developed emergency response plans and capabilities that might be of interest to the city of Chongqing, and we are certain Seattle can learn as well from Chongqing's experience.

Sincerely,

GREG NICKELS Mayor of Seattle

JAN DRAGO Seattle City Council Member

Posted: May 15, 2008