Macao would like to support Sichuan in its post-quake reconstruction efforts, especially in rebuilding schools and other community facilities, the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Mr Chui Sai On, said today.

Mr Chui said this at the airport where he met members of a 20-member medical team who returned from Sichuan after helping treat quake victims at a Chengdu hospital.

He said that he might visit Sichuan in a fact-finding trip soon to learn more about the reconstruction of schools, sports and community development facilities.

He acknowledged that reconstruction is a long-term mission and Macao would fully co-operate with the Sichuan authorities and help rebuild the affected areas.

Another medical team of about 20 medical staff will depart for Nanchong, Sichuan, next week to help there, he said.

More than 500 medical staff have registered to take part to offer help to the quake victims.

Macao would continue to co-ordinate with the related authorities and provide disaster relief and medical support to Sichuan, he said.