Myanmar’s junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, is attending a regional summit in Bangkok as the country struggles to cope with an earthquake that has killed over 3,000 people. The disaster, which struck central Myanmar last Friday, has left cities in ruins and hundreds more missing.
Min Aung Hlaing arrived in Bangkok on Thursday, despite facing international pressure due to his leadership of a sanctioned regime. The Thai government has proposed a joint statement by the summit’s leaders on the earthquake, which will include countries bordering the Bay of Bengal.
However, relief efforts have been complicated by poor infrastructure and an ongoing civil war. The junta announced a temporary ceasefire late on Wednesday to expedite aid delivery, but this move comes after earlier rejections from armed ethnic rebel groups.
The military’s airstrikes in rebel-held areas continue, including those badly hit by the earthquake. Troops also opened fire at a Chinese Red Cross convoy carrying relief supplies, sparking international condemnation.
Min Aung Hlaing is expected to speak with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra during the summit. The junta chief’s attendance has raised concerns about his leadership in the face of the humanitarian crisis.
The earthquake has worsened Myanmar’s already dire economic and humanitarian situation, which has been crippled by years of violence since the military seized power in 2021. Humanitarian groups are urging the junta to lift any remaining obstructions to aid. The UN is also calling for increased global support before the monsoon season hits in about a month.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy5rl9x6zqgo