Lt. Governor James R. "Duke" Aiona Jr. issued the following statement on Wednesday in response to an earthquake in the Sichuan Province of China which authorities believe has killed more than 12,000 people:

"The people of Hawai'i extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who have lost loved ones in the devastation of Monday's horrific earthquake in China. Our thoughts and prayers are with our fellow Americans abroad and the people of China as they cope with the aftermath of this tragedy.

"Hawai'i shares an historic friendship with China and close family ties.

"The people of Hawai'i are always the first to step forward, and their generosity is playing an important part in helping China to recover from this natural disaster.

"The American Red Cross is accepting donations to provide relief. To make a donation or find out how you can assist, contact:

American Red Cross

www.redcross.org <http://www.redcross.org>

1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767)

739-8105 (O'ahu)