IOC President Jacques Rogge has today written to Chinese President Hu Jintao on hearing media reports about the earthquake that has hit China.

Rogge, who penned the letter early this morning as the scale of the disaster was just becoming apparent, expressed his concern at the reports coming through the media, and extended the support of the IOC and the entire Olympic Movement to the country's President and the Chinese people. "We send our deepest felt condolences for the victims. The Olympic Movement is at your side, especially during these difficult moments. Our thoughts are with you." Rogge says in his letter.

Commenting later in the day on hearing of the reported rising death toll, Rogge said, "This appears to be a major disaster, the scale of which is only just becoming apparent. I feel deeply for those affected and join in solidarity with the people of China."

Messages from the IOC have also been sent to the President of the Organising Committee for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Game (BOCOG), Mr Lui Qi and to his staff.

(Credit: IOC. Click here for further information.)