CRI听力:UN, China, U.S. Express Condolences

The Chinese government is expressing 'shock' at the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17.

A statement from the Foreign Ministry says its China's hope the cause of the crash can be found as soon as possible.

At the same time, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is expressing his condolences over the downing of the Malaysian airliner, calling for a full and transparent international investigation.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is describing this as the largest air disaster in Dutch history.

There were 154 Dutch nationals on board the flight.

Dutch authorities are calling for unhindered and safe access to the crash site in eastern Ukraine.

Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President Joe Biden says that the downing of a Malaysian airliner near the Ukraine-Russia border apparently was "not an accident" and that the passenger jet was "apparently blown out of the sky."

"This is truly a grave situation, nearly 300 souls have been lost, the families need consolation and our prayers and there are many questions that need to be answered. They will get those answers and we will take the next steps accordingly."

Other countries which have also lost nationals are also demanding answers.