China accepts $500,000 from U.S. for earthquake aid

WASHINGTON (CNN) - The Chinese government on Tuesday accepted an American offer of $500,000 in relief funds, according to an official with the U.S. Agency for International Development.

The money will go to the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the United States is "prepared to do more," said Ky Luu, director of the Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance for USAID.

However, China hasn't asked for other disaster assistance. The United States has search-and-rescue teams standing by in Virginia and California, Luu said.

On Tuesday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed gratitude for the earthquake relief provided by countries and organizations, especially the Red Cross. Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said many countries and international groups showed their sympathy in various forms soon after the earthquake in Sichuan Province.