SINGAPORE : Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said Singapore is ready to help the Chinese government in any way possible, in the aftermath of a deadly earthquake in Sichuan.

In his letter to Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, Mr Lee said this includes dispatching Singapore's Disaster Assistance Rescue Teams (DART) to help in recovery work.

Mr Lee said he is deeply saddened to learn of the great loss of lives and the extensive damage caused by the quake.

On behalf of Singapore, Mr Lee extended his sympathies to those affected by the quake and sent condolences to the families of the victims.

He added that the Chinese government has mounted swift relief and rescue efforts, and he is confident that under Premier Wen's leadership, China will be able to tackle the challenges ahead and overcome this disaster.

Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said so far, there have been no reports of Singaporeans injured.

Together with its missions in China, MFA said it will continue to closely monitor the situation in Sichuan. - CNA /ls