Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, reached out yesterday evening to Prime Minister of Pakistan Mr Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, via phone to explore potential avenues for assistance for loss and damage in Myanmar due to severe impacts of the powerful earthquake on 28 March.
First, the Prime Minister of Pakistan expressed deep condolences regarding the severe earthquake that recently struck Myanmar, causing significant damage. He shared that Pakistan, along with the people of Myanmar, deeply feels the suffering and extended heartfelt sympathy. The Prime Minister wished for swift rehabilitation efforts to be carried out in Myanmar and expressed hope that Myanmar would quickly recover from the devastation. In the coming days, the Pakistani government and people will send 35 tonnes of humanitarian aid materials to Myanmar through two air shipments, followed by 17 additional tonnes of rescue equipment. The Pakistani government also pledged to continue providing any further assistance required by Myanmar. He expressed the hope that Myanmar would overcome the difficult period it is facing as soon as possible and emphasized the close, friendly, and cooperative relationship between the two countries, which they aim to further strengthen in the future.
The Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister expressed his gratitude for the kind words and assistance provided by a friendly country. He also affirmed that they will continue to cooperate and work together based on opportunities for collaboration. He also expressed appreciation for the telephone communication, the expression of condolences by the people of Pakistan, and the delivery of humanitarian aid from Pakistan.
The two countries enjoy a deep and cordial relationship. He also values the valuable communication and support extended by Pakistan. As of noon today, Myanmar has reported 2,065 fatalities due to the earthquake, with over 3,900 injured and approximately 270 people still missing. The 28 March, when the earthquake occurred, was a Friday, which is a day for Islamic prayers and supplications. Due to this, some damage and losses occurred. The Senior General said that currently rescue operations are being conducted. Regarding the posts on social media that claim around 700 Muslims were killed while praying, this is not true. The actual number is closer to around 500. The bodies of the deceased have already been recovered during rescue operations, and efforts to search and rescue others are still ongoing.
Afterwards, the Prime Minister of Pakistan said he expressed heartfelt recognition and acknowledgement of continued efforts being made for search and rescue operations regarding the casualties sustained in this incident informed by the Prime Minister of Myanmar. He also prays to their Lord for the swift recovery of affected Myanmar citizens. He wishes to express recognition of Myanmar’s efforts being made under challenging circumstances, and he would also like to mention that Myanmar can contact Pakistan at any time for further assistance if needed. Moreover, he said Pakistan has made arrangements to ensure that the rescue supplies, medicines, and ready-to-eat food sent from our country will reach Myanmar within 24 hours.
Next, the Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister expressed sincere thanks for the condolences and support sent by the people of Pakistan. He also reiterated his expression of gratitude for the relief materials provided to the people affected by the earthquake. It was further mentioned that, as friendly countries, both nations will continue to strengthen their cooperation. He also expressed appreciation for the words of encouragement and support.
MNA/TTA
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