The Thai government's assistant spokesman Colonel Athisit Chainuwat told reporters the Thai Navy SEAL rescue team was still with the boys and rescuers were trying to install lights and a power supply and get communications equipment to the boys.

Chinese rescuers have dived into the cave to bring supplies and build a transport and clinic system since their arrival.

"The moment we heard of the news, we started to apply to relevant authorities in both Thailand and China to provide rescue assistance," Wang said.

China has always tracked natural disasters in Southeast Asia, and Wang said his team wants to use their experience starting from 2008 to help those in need.

Contact the writers at liuxuan@chinadaily.com.cn