Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Kyaw Thu met the US Charge d’ Affaires Ms Shari Villarosa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Yangon at 17:00 hours on 9 May 2008 and explained Myanmar’s principles in receiving disaster relief assistance for the people affected by the cyclone Nargis.

During the meeting, the Deputy Minister recalled that on 5 May 2008, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement and the Minister for Information met the diplomatic corps at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Yangon and briefed them on the impact of cyclone Nargis and the disaster situation in the cyclone-stricken areas. At that briefing, it was made clear that Myanmar agency, disaster relief supplies such as tents, plastic sheets, corrugated iron sheets, food and medicines, blankets, clothings, communication equipment.

The Deputy Minister added that however rumours were spreading that the Myanmar Government was making selective acceptance of donations and was declining disaster assistance from certain western countries. In fact, disaster relief assistance donated by countries near and far, has been accepted by the authorities concerned and systematically transferred to disaster-stricken areas with immediate effect.

He also said that financial assistance from any country could be provided through the respective Myanmar Missions while disaster relief goods could be brought in to Yangon International Airport or Yangon International Seaport where they would be received by the authorities concerned for immediate transfer and distribution to the affected people in the disaster-stricken areas. The US Charged’ Affaires then handed over a note to the Deputy Minister offering relief supplies to be delivered in the coming days from the US Government.

The Myanmar side has already replied its acceptance of the offer for assistance with thanks. The Government of the Union of Myanmar, in accordance with its prevailing principles, has not refused but accepted with appreciation the offer of disaster relief goods and financial assistance from any government or agency.