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OTTAWA - Canada is contributing $1 million to support the International Red Cross emergency quake relief effort in China.

International Co-operation Minister Bev Oda and Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Bernier say the money will help ensure the basic needs of affected communities are met quickly, and effectively.

Canada's contribution will help provide emergency shelter, medical services and relief items, as well as water and sanitation services.

Earlier in the week, the federal government announced it would also match individual donations to humanitarian organizations working in quake relief in China.

In a statement, Bernier says Canadians share the grief of those who have lost loved ones and stand in solidarity with those involved in the rescue and relief effort.

He says Canadian officials are actively working to ensure that Canada continues its leadership role in responding to the crisis.

Oda says Canadians "are deeply concerned about the impact of the earthquake and this support will help ensure that the basic needs of affected communities are met quickly and effectively."