China has declared three days of national mourning for earthquake victims.

The State Council says the mourning period starts on Monday and includes three minutes of silence observed nationwide at 2:28 p.m., the time the quake struck. Automobiles, trains, and ships will sound their air sirens. Flags are also to be kept at half-mast.

The Beijing Olympic organizers also say in a statement that the torch relay will be suspended to express the mourning to the victims of the earthquake.

Chinese people all over the world have also voiced their support for the national mouring days.

"The mourning can bring more people to pay attention to this disaster. By setting up national mourning days, people will be encouraged to make even more contributions to the disaster-hit areas."

"Although we are living abroad, we are deeply concerned with the rescue work. Many expatriates are looking every possible way to make donations to the people in Sichuan. China is a united nation, I believe our country can walk out of the disaster and embrace a better future."

"We pray for all the victims in the earthquake. We will offer our love and care to them, and together we can overcome the difficulties."

"Chinese people are very brave. I can see the perseverance towards life. I hope those rescued people can better cherish their lives."

Ge Jianxiong, a professor with Fudan University in Shanghai, has made an appeal to China's top legislature to mark May 19 a national mourning day.

The professor has been widely supported by Internet users for the appeal.

Some people living in Sichuan suggested May 12 be designated as a provincial mourning day.

Hu Guangwei, a scholar with the Sichuan Academy of Social Sciences, said the mourning days will not only memorize the victims but also enlighten later generations with a spirit of getting united.

Professor Wang Jianping with Sichuan University said China should codify a national mourning day and make it a convention.