Update | China to give additional 10 million yuan to Philippine storm victims after criticism
Beijing said yesterday it would increase its aid to the typhoon-pummelled Philippines after criticism of its initial modest response, but some Chinese web users called for no help at all.
Beijing said yesterday it would increase its aid to the typhoon-pummelled Philippines after criticism of its initial modest response, but some Chinese web users called for no help at all.
The two countries are embroiled in a row over islands in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims almost in its entirety. Beijing announced a US$100,000 cash donation on Monday, with a matching one from the Chinese Red Cross, far less than other countries and a move that prompted criticism overseas.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said the country decided "just days ago" to provide an additional 10 million yuan (HK$12.6 million) for relief efforts in the form of blankets, tents and other materials.
"We hope that these supplies will be delivered to the disaster-stricken areas as soon as possible to show our sympathies with the Philippines," Qin said.
Video: Next Media mocks Chinese government's donation to typhoon-stricken Philippines