Delft, may 1, 2003

Dear Colleagues and Students of the Chemical Engineering Department

Clearly China, its people and leaders are tested and challenged to the utmost by this silent enemy called SARS. We follow the developments very closely on television and the internet (western and Chinese sites) and in the newspapers. Please accept our greatest sympathy for the endurance and difficult time you have to go through. We are convinced that by strong and collective actions you will conquer this sudden but temporary threat to the progress and prosperity of your country. But, it is good to keep in mind that every great setback or disappointment often bears/carries the seed for new opportunities. That may be the ultimate gain if one is patient.

I sincerely hope that I can soon return to China and continue my tasks while enjoying Chinese tea, food and atmosphere, and my cooperation with you.

With best wishes, also on behalf of my wife,

Jakob de Swaan Arons

Chair professor

Chemical Engineering Department

Tsinghua University