Canada on Wednesday pledged to provide tents, medical supplies and other aid to quake-hit southwest China.

"I've gotten good feedback from the Chinese Foreign Ministry on areas where there are specific needs, like tents and medical supplies. Canada is enthusiastic about helping," the visiting Canadian International Trade Minister David Emerson told Xinhua.

But he didn't specify the quantities of tents and medical supplies Canada would offer.

Emerson's four-day visit was planned months before the 8.0-magnitude earthquake struck western China on May 12, but quake relief work dominated his discussions with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Yesui on Wednesday.

"Zhang told me tents are in short supply, as many victims have been displaced and could end up spending a significant amount of time in tents," Emerson said.

Emerson said Canada will do what it can to make living conditions more bearable for the displaced.

Bringing with him a letter of condolence from Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Emerson said his visit aimed at passing on the condolences and best wishes of all Canadians to the Chinese people, particularly to the families of the victims in the quake.

"Our hearts and sympathy go out to the Chinese people."

In response to the quake, Emerson said the Canadian government had committed 1 million Canadian dollars (about US$999,600) to the International Federation of the Red Cross for disaster relief.

Emerson also complimented the Chinese government on how it had handled the relief and rescue efforts. "It is an inspiration to those of us in the world who have been watching the massive and well-organized response to this terrible tragedy," he said.

Emerson said Canada was also willing to send medical experts and others who would like to be involved in the relief efforts.

During his stay in Beijing, Emerson will discuss with officials from the ministries of commerce and science issues involving bilateral investment and a transportation project, the Asia-Pacific Gateway Initiative.

He is also scheduled to speak at a transportation forum and unveil a pavilion in the Beijing Urban Planning Exhibition Hall to showcase Canada.

(Xinhua News Agency May 21, 2008)