China is taking active measures to cope with the aftermath of a stampede in the Islamic holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, and the related work is proceeding in an orderly way, said sources with its Ministry of Foreign Affairs here Friday.

It has been confirmed that four Chinese were crushed to death during a religious "stoning ritual" near Mecca on Thursday.

Upon learning of the tragedy, President Hu Jintao immediately instructed the relevant Chinese departments and the Chinese embassy and consulate in the Arab country to take measures to assist those injured Chinese citizens and handle the aftermath properly.

Hu also extended to the Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdel Aziz sympathy and solicitude over the heavy casualties caused by the stampede.

Source: Xinhua