Myanmar is reeling from a catastrophic earthquake that has left thousands dead, cities in ruins, and families shattered. The junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, is now making an unprecedented journey to Thailand for a crucial regional summit amidst the country’s darkest hour.
Unprecedented Summit Attendance
It is highly unusual for sanctioned leaders like Min Aung Hlaing to participate in such events; however, the severity of the situation seems to have overridden diplomatic norms. The earthquake that struck central Myanmar last Friday has claimed the lives of 3,085 individuals and left 4,715 injured. With hundreds still missing, the death toll is set to climb even higher.
A Regional Call for Support
As Min Aung Hlaing prepares to depart for Bangkok on Thursday before the summit with leaders from seven Bay of Bengal bordering countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka; conversations are swirling around collaborative efforts to address this tragedy. Hosted by Thailand – which itself suffered losses with 21 fatalities – there are plans for a joint statement regarding the disaster.
Complex Relief Efforts
Despite international aid pouring in following the quake, relief operations have been hampered by Myanmar’s fragile infrastructure and ongoing civil unrest. The military-led government announced a temporary ceasefire recently to facilitate humanitarian assistance after rejecting earlier proposals from rebel groups operating within affected regions.
Civil Unrest Complicates Relief
Myanmar has been embroiled in a violent civil war since 2021 when the military seized power; this led to widespread resistance movements aligning with armed ethnic factions battling against government forces. The conflict has decimated livelihoods and pushed the nation into an abyss of economic turmoil and escalating inflation rates.
Race Against Time Before Monsoon Season
With monsoon season looming on the horizon in about a month’s time, global organizations are urging swift action and increased support from nations worldwide. As Myanmar grapples with layers of crises – both man-made and natural – time is of the essence before further calamity strikes an already vulnerable population.
