PM Shehbaz pledges support to Myanmar as earthquake toll rises

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to humanitarian aid and disaster relief in a phone call with Myanmar’s junta chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, following a powerful earthquake that struck the Southeast Asian nation on March 28.

During the conversation, PM Shehbaz conveyed condolences on behalf of the Pakistani government and citizens, expressing solidarity with Myanmar’s affected communities. He announced that Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) would send approximately 70 tons of relief supplies in two separate sorties within the next 48 hours.

Myanmar’s military leadership welcomed Pakistan’s support, with General Hlaing thanking Islamabad for its timely assistance. He acknowledged the aid as a meaningful gesture amid growing humanitarian needs.

The 7.7-magnitude earthquake, one of the strongest in Myanmar’s history, has left at least 1,700 people dead, 3,400 injured, and over 300 missing as of Sunday, according to the military government. Authorities warned that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue in areas with limited resources.

The natural disaster has further strained the country, which has been facing internal conflict since the 2021 military coup. Damage to critical infrastructure, including highways, bridges, and hospitals, has complicated relief efforts.

International humanitarian organizations, including the Red Cross, have described the destruction as extensive and warned of worsening conditions. The United States has pledged $2 million in aid through Myanmar-based humanitarian groups, while additional assistance is expected from global donors.

Myanmar’s military government has restricted international media access to the disaster zone, citing damaged infrastructure and logistical challenges. Rescue teams, including foreign aid workers, continue efforts to provide relief to tho

se affected.