Rio Tinto donates RMB 8 million (US$1.15 million) to China earthquake relief

Rio Tinto has announced a donation of RMB 8 million (US$1.15 million) to support rebuilding efforts after the recent earthquake in China's Sichuan Province.

In Beijing, Anthony Loo, managing director of Rio Tinto China and Rio Tinto Asia, presented the donation during China Television's earthquake relief donation programme on 18 May. The donation will be used for relief efforts following the recent earthquake.

Tom Albanese, chief executive of Rio Tinto, said, "The earthquake in Sichuan and its neighbouring provinces has caused tremendous devastation, leading to great loss to both human lives and wealth. Rio Tinto feels deep sympathy for the victims of the tragic earthquake. We feel incredibly sorry for those who lost their lives and would like to extend our sincere condolences to their families and relatives.

"Rio Tinto has been partnering with China for more than 100 years. As an international mining company, Rio Tinto is committed to maintaining a long term strategic partnership with China and would like to continue contributing to the economic growth of China and the world. As China now faces unprecedented destruction from the recent earthquake, we will do our best to help the people most affected."

Anthony Loo said: "As an international mining company, in addition to donating RMB 8 million, we are arranging for the travel of experienced geologists to the earthquake affected areas. These areas are complicated in topography and are making rescue efforts extremely difficult. Geologists could help to provide on site professional expertise and technical support in support of the recovery efforts.

"Like our colleagues worldwide, Rio Tinto staff in China have been deeply concerned and very supportive of relief efforts. Rio Tinto would like to join hands with all other contributors to relief efforts."

About Rio Tinto Group

Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London listed company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.

Rio Tinto's business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa.

For media inquires, please contact:

Xu Guangming
Hill & Knowlton China
Phone: 010-5861 0051
Mobile: 134 6630 1138
Email：guangming.xu@hillandknowlton.com.cn

Linda Li
Rio Tinto External Affairs Specialist
Phone: 010-6536 2629
Mobile: 139 1188 0151
Email：linda.li@riotinto.com

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