The Chinese government will consider providing further aid for the United States hit by Hurricane Katrina if it is needed, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said Tuesday.

Qin said at a press conference that both sides need to consult on details.

Qin announced on Saturday that China had decided to offer disaster relief up to 5 million US dollars along with emergency supplies to the US people victimized by Hurricane Katrina, and that if necessary the Chinese government would send rescue workers to help in medical treatment and epidemic prevention in the US disaster-stricken areas.

China will keep close contacts with the United States on the disaster relief work and join the international community in assisting the local people restoring their homeland, the spokesman said.

Hurricane Katrina hit the southern part of the United States on Aug. 29, causing heavy casualties and damages.

Chinese President Hu Jintao on Aug. 31 sent a telegram to US President George W. Bush, expressing sympathy and condolences to President Bush, the US government and people for their suffering caused by Hurricane Katrina, on behalf of the Chinese government and people.

Source: Xinhua