China Central Television has held a charity concert called "Contributions of Love" in Beijing. Many famous actors, directors, sports stars, singers and artists from across the country gathered on Sunday evening for the big event. Some companies also sent representatives to make donations.

Li Changchun (3rd L, front row), member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, attends a benefit gala held for the quake-stricken people of Sichuan in Beijing May 18, 2008. China's performing artists and other well-known figures showed their love and generosity in the televised gala Sunday night, donating more than 1.51 billion yuan (about 216 million U.S. dollars) for quake-hit areas. (Xinhua Photo)

Three minutes of silence was observed for the victims of the Wenchuan earthquake. Six donation hot lines were operating during the concert in Chinese, English, French, Korean, Japanese and Cantonese.

Senior Party leader Li Changchun got the donations started. Afterwards came other senior officials and representatives from all walks of life to show their support for people in the quake zone. Media figures also made their contributions.

(CCTV May 19, 2008)