International: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a crucial meeting with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, reaffirmed India’s commitment to aiding Myanmar’s recovery following a catastrophic earthquake.
The Prime Minister conveyed his deepest condolences for the significant loss of life and extensive property damage, emphasizing that India is actively providing all possible assistance to the affected people. This meeting marked the first interaction between PM Modi and the Myanmarese leader since the military coup in February 2021.
The discussions extended beyond immediate relief efforts, encompassing broader bilateral relations between India and Myanmar. Key areas of focus included enhancing connectivity, bolstering capacity building, and advancing infrastructure development.
Sources indicated that Senior General Min Aung Hlaing expressed sincere gratitude for India’s prompt and effective relief assistance. Furthermore, he acknowledged the Prime Minister’s expertise in disaster management, specifically referencing the reconstruction efforts following the Bhuj earthquake in Gujarat, which he suggested held valuable lessons for Myanmar.
India’s response, dubbed ‘Operation Brahma’, has seen the deployment of military field hospitals in Mandalay, close to the earthquake’s epicenter. A senior Myanmar administrative official visited the Indian facility, underscoring the collaborative effort. Additionally, personnel from India’s National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are on the ground, actively participating in relief operations. The 35-minute meeting underscored India’s determination to provide aid, with the Prime Minister stating, “We are ready to help.”
Myanmar’s strategic importance within the BIMSTEC framework, which aims to enhance regional connectivity, was also a significant point of discussion. The earthquake has presented Myanmar with an opportunity to engage with the international community, seeking vital humanitarian aid for its recovery. The disaster has resulted in over 3,000 fatalities, nearly 5,000 injuries, and more than 370 people remain missing across the nation.
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing also attended an official dinner for BIMSTEC leaders, including representatives from Thailand, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that disaster management was a key topic during the BIMSTEC ministerial meetings.
Notably, while China has disclosed the monetary value of its aid to Myanmar, India has maintained its stance of not quantifying its humanitarian assistance, emphasizing the intrinsic value of its support during times of crisis.
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