Asian nations lead swift aid for quake victims

As world leaders offered their condolences, neighbouring and other countries dispatched medical teams and supplies to the devastated area while China, the United States and Britain pledged emergency cash.

"The Chinese government has expressed to the Indonesian government its willingness to provide any assistance needed," China's foreign ministry said after also offering two million dollars.

President George W. Bush offered 2.5 million dollars after talking by telephone with Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who advised him of the situation on the ground.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Indonesian people as they comfort all those affected by this terrible disaster," Bush said.

The European Union said it would release up to three million euros (3.8 million dollars) in emergency aid.

Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan have already sent doctors and other medical experts to the stricken area on Indonesia's main Java island. Nations as far afield as Norway and Turkey are also flying in teams.

Despite pledges of aid pouring in, Indonesia appealed for further assistance with the 6.3 magnitude quake devastating areas around the historic city of Yogyakarta and leaving some 200,000 people homeless.

Hospitals are struggling to cope with the number of injured, prompting an emergency appeal from the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies for almost 10 million dollars.