The Minister of State for Commerce and Power, Shri Jairam Ramesh led the Indian delegation to attend the ASEAN-UN International Pledging Conference in Yangon on 25th May, 2008. Forty five countries and several international agencies participated.

In his statement at the International Pledging Conference, the Minister conveyed that keeping in mind the civilisational, historic and expanding economic ties, it was natural that there has been a spontaneous outpouring of sympathy in India for the people of Myanmar. Recalling the prompt response of the Government of India to this catastrophe, he expressed satisfaction that, at a time when the international community was still in the process of getting its act together, India had already sent to Myanmar the much-needed relief and medical supplies. Shri Ramesh called on the international community to provide assistance to Myanmar expeditiously in the true humanitarian spirit and keep the process apolitical. He expressed India’s full commitment to assist in the reconstruction phase as well.

In the aftermath of the devastating cyclone in Myanmar early this month, India had rushed relief and medical supplies to Myanmar. Two Indian Navy ships and six Indian aircrafts have so far carried immediate relief material, food, roofing material and medical supplies. Two Indian medical teams, comprising of 47 personnel, are currently in Myanmar, stationed in Pyapon and Bogale towns located at the heart of the disaster areas. They have been treating an average of more than one thousand five hundred patients a day and their work has been greatly appreciated. India is in the process of sending in more relief material and another Indian aircraft will reach Yangon early next week.

The Minister met Prime Minister of Myanmar U Thein Sein and the UN Secretary General Mr. Ban Ki Moon. During his meeting, the Prime Minister of Myanmar expressed the gratitude of the Government of Myanmar for India’s prompt and generous assistance and commitment to assist in their rehabilitation efforts. He also commended the work of the Indian medical team.

PIB