Premier expresses condolences over launch capsizing in Bangladesh

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Monday expressed his condolences over the loss of lives in Sunday's launch capsizing incident in Bangladesh.

"Shocked to learn that a double-decker launch has capsized in the river on Meghna in Bangladesh, causing heavy losses of lives and property," said Wen in a message to his Bangladeshi counterpart Begum Khaleda Zia.

"On behalf of the Chinese government and in my own name, I wishto express our heartfelt condolences to the victims and sincere solicitude to your excellency and through you to the bereft families," added Wen.