People hold placards on which are written with the number of money donated for the quake-stricken people of Sichuan Province during a benefit gala held in Beijing May 18, 2008. (Photo source: CCTV)

The earthquake charity concert aired on China Central Television on Sunday received an overwhelming response from China and abroad. The concert provided encouragement for the nation to fight against natural disasters and rebuild their homeland.

President Hu Jintao praised the event and expressed his thanks for all those who worked for the concert. He called for people to unite to overcome difficulties.

About 550 million domestic viewers watched the live concert broadcast on CCTV. The concert was aired in 49 foreign countries and regions. Following the concert, tens of thousands of people showed how much they cared through telephones, internet or cell phone messages.

More than 1.5 billion yuan or about 216 million U.S. dollars was raised through the concert.

(CCTV May 23,2008)