Singapore stands ready to deliver more assistance for quake-hit Myanmar: FM Vivian Balakrishnan

Key Concepts:

• ASEAN Foreign Minister's Meeting
• Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand
• Solidarity and Condolences
• Search and Rescue Operations
• Humanitarian Assistance
• Singapore's Response (SCEDF, Ops Lionheart, Singapore Red Cross)
• Fundraising Campaign
• Ceasefire and National Reconciliation

Emergency ASEAN Foreign Minister's Meeting:

The meeting was convened in response to the devastating earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. The primary purpose was to express collective sorrow and solidarity with the affected populations.

Condolences and Solidarity:

The ministers expressed their condolences for the victims who lost their lives and their solidarity with those involved in search and rescue efforts and those receiving medical care.

Impact of the Earthquake:

The earthquake is considered the worst to hit Myanmar in a century, resulting in unprecedented damage.

Singapore's Immediate Response:

• SCEDF (Singapore Cooperation Enterprise Disaster Relief Fund): Deployed the "Ops Lionheart" team, consisting of approximately 80 personnel, who arrived in Naypyidaw (Napidor) the previous day.
• Singapore Red Cross: Launched a public fundraising campaign and initially allocated $150,000.
• Government Matching: The Singapore government will match the public donations with an additional $150,000.

Use of Funds:

The raised funds will be used for urgent and immediate humanitarian assistance to the earthquake victims in Myanmar.

Future Assistance:

Singapore is prepared to provide further humanitarian aid in the coming days, contingent on the evolving situation.

Call for Ceasefire and National Reconciliation:

The speaker expressed hope for an effective ceasefire to allow everyone in Myanmar to focus on the humanitarian crisis. In the long term, the speaker hopes for national reconciliation, long-term peace, and reconstruction.

Notable Quote:

"Singaporeans feel deep compassion for the people in Myanmar...this earthquake is supposed to have been the worst that has affected Myanmar in a 100red years."

Conclusion:

The ASEAN Foreign Minister's Meeting highlighted the regional response to the Myanmar earthquake. Singapore's immediate actions, including deploying a rescue team and launching a fundraising campaign, demonstrate its commitment to providing humanitarian assistance. The call for a ceasefire and national reconciliation underscores the importance of long-term stability for effective recovery and reconstruction efforts.