Premier Li Keqiang meets with divers involved in the search and rescue operations on the Hubei section of the Yangtze River on June 3. The cruise ship Eastern Star capsized after being hit by a cyclone on June 1 at around 9:30 p.m. [Photo: english.gov.cn]

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang returned Wednesday amid heavy rain to the scene of search and rescue operations on the Hubei section of the Yangtze River where the cruise ship Eastern Star capsized after being hit by a cyclone.

Premier Li met with divers who searched for survivors for 24 hours and said that the rescue teams carry the hopes of an entire nation.

He praised the divers’ dedication and professionalism and said they should take care while doing dangerous work in challenging conditions, but no effort must be spared in their mission to save lives.