Chinese President Hu Jintao arrived at the quake-hit Beichuan County on Friday afternoon to console quake-affected people and direct disaster relief operation. [Photo: cnsphoto]

Knowing there were still 300 teachers and students buried in the ruins, Hu said, "Saving lives is still an urgent task. We should rescue them by every possible means as long as there is a glimmer of hope."

Hu also praised the troops conducting rescue work in Beichuan Middle School.

"You came to the frontline immediately, and threw yourself into the rescue work regardless of your own safety and made a great contribution.

"You have given hope, confidence and strength to the quake-affected people," he said.

Hu said the rescue work has entered a crucial stage. "You should be unafraid of fatigue and work around the clock, making great efforts to keep losses to a minimum."

In a field clinic in the middle school, he kissed the face of Luo Mengxi, a three-and-half year old girl who lost her mother in the quake.

He went back to Beichuan county seat and visited the Nanhe Sports Center, where more than 10,000 disaster-affected people were settled. He thanked the volunteers for their contribution to the rescue work.

He also visited the Mianyang City Central Hospital, telling the medics to make every effort to treat the injured.

The death toll from the powerful earthquake rose to 22,069 nationwide as of 2 PM Friday, while 168,669 people were injured, according to the emergency response office of the State Council.

Chinese President  arrived at the quake-hit Beichuan County on Friday afternoon to console quake-affected people and direct disaster relief operation. [Photo: Xinhua]

(Xinhua News Agency May 16, 2008)