THURSDAY, March 28, 2024
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Myanmar thanks countries for aid but says much more is needed

Myanmar thanks countries for aid but says much more is needed

Myanmar has thanked the international community for the assistance extended to its people affected by the severe flooding in the country's western border regions.

"I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation for the goodwill and concern of friendly nations, especially neighbouring countries and Asean countries," Union ParliamentSpeaker Thura Shwe Mann said in a statement.

Tens of thousands of people remain stranded in Myanmar's rugged and mountainous western border regions after flash floods and landslides swept away homes, roads and bridges after weeks of relentless rains.
Particularly thanks were due to China and Thailand, the speaker said, adding that he also welcomed the petition on the Obama Administration’s website for emergency helps to flood victims in Myanmar.
“We fervently hope for the assistance of the international community for the flood victims as the current disaster occurred in Myanmar is very extensive and it is necessary to address it collectively. The initiatives of the UN, NGOs, INGOs and Civil Society are encouraging.”
He described the present flood situation throughout the country is unprecedented, saying in order to save the lives of people in affected areas and to prevent further negative consequences of the flooding, urgent assistance of the international community is needed.
He added that the role of the local and international media is provided updated news and information is also appreciated. 
The United States this week urged donors to contact civil organisations working on the ground for help. 
Australia Foreign Minister Julie Bishop today announced a package of support to Myanmar, responding to a request from the Myanmar government. Australia will provide 2 million Australian dollars toward the relief efforts and is working with the government and humanitarian partners to determine how funding will be allocated.
In a statement, she added that existing Australian funding to development and humanitarian partners in Myanmar is also being used to support the relief efforts.  Australia is a key donor to the UN’s Emergency Response Fund for Burma and the Central Emergency Response Fund, both of which are releasing funds to support the response. Prior to the cyclone, the Australian Government had deployed Australian Civilian Corps specialists to work with humanitarian partners. A specialist is now assisting with the relief effort and coordinating damage assessments.
She added that the Rakhine state is one of the areas worst affected by the floods. A dedicated specialist is working with UNHCR and the Myanmar government to assist the 140,000 Rohingya people displaced by conflict and affected by floods. An additional humanitarian adviser will depart for Myanmar next week to help coordinate Australian assistance.
 
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