Chinese President expresses condolences over deaths in subway explosion, hostage crisis in Russia

Chinese President Hu Jintao sent a message of condolences to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Thursday over the deaths of civilians in the subway explosion and hostage crisis in the country.

In the message, President Hu Jintao also offered his sincere sympathy to the relatives of those killed in the tragedy.

Meanwhile, President Hu stressed that the Chinese government strongly opposes terrorism in any form, and condemns the horrible act of violence against innocent civilians.

He also expressed his strong support for the Russian government in their efforts to fight against terrorism, maintain national security and safeguard people's life and safety.

At least 10 people were killed and more than 50 wounded Tuesday in a suicide bombing attack outside a Moscow subway station.

Some 400 people, including 200 schoolchildren, have been taken hostage after a group of armed men seized a school in Russia 's North Ossetia region on Wednesday.