UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon commended on Monday the Chinese government and people for their "strength, resilience and courage" in the face of massive challenges caused by the recent deadly earthquake.

On Monday morning, the UN chief paid a visit to the residence of China's Permanent Mission to the United Nations, where he stood in silent tribute to the quake victims.

"China's loss is greater than many of the world can fathom," Ban wrote on the book of condolences. "The international community stands behind great people of China in the face of this massive tragedy."

"Your strength, resilience and courage have profoundly impressed the world," he wrote. "The whole UN system and family stand behind you, China, at this time of challenge."

(Xinhua News Agency May 20, 2008)