The first batch of Chinese emergency aid arrived in Myanmar on Monday. By then, Chinese rescue teams were on the ground in Myanmar and Thailand, and they had rescued six people. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun framed the response as a sign of China’s regional commitment:
“A merciless disaster can bring out the best of humanity. China, in the spirit of “pauk-phaw” [Burmese for “kin”] friendship, will continue to stand with Myanmar and work closely with the country as it emerges from the disaster.”
The response was widely contrasted by the Western press to the U.S. response. Washington said it would donate $2 million “through Myanmar-based humanitarian assistance organizations” and dispatched a small rescue team, but they had not been able to reach the country by the end of the crucial 72-hour rescue period. It is unclear when they will arrive. The dismantling of USAID ground networks was a key factor in the delay. The formal shuttering of the agency was announced on Friday.
China’s Assistance in Numbers
- FINANCIAL: China announced an initial RMB 100 million (about $14 million) in emergency funding to Myanmar
- PERSONNEL: The first team arrived in Myanmar within 18 hours. Around 400 rescuers are currently deployed.
- PHYSICAL AID: The aid consignment includes 1,200 tents, 8,000 blankets, and 40,000 first aid kits. A flight containing 7.3 tons of relief supplies and food left China on Sunday.
