Regional nations offer aid to quake-hit Myanmar, Thailand

ISLAMABAD

Asian nations on Friday expressed solidarity with the earthquake-hit Myanmar and Thailand and offered humanitarian assistance, as at least 151 people have died and 117 others are trapped or missing.

In a statement, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he is “deeply concerned” by the powerful earthquake that struck central Myanmar and northern Thailand and caused huge damage to infrastructure.

"On behalf of Malaysia, I extend our deepest condolences to all those who have lost loved ones, and our prayers to those injured and displaced. Malaysia stands in unwavering solidarity with our neighbours and fellow ASEAN Member States," he said on X.

Ibrahim also offered humanitarian assistance and said they are ready to support humanitarian efforts as needed.

Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto also extended his condolences to Myanmar and Thailand and said Jakarta stands with both countries during this difficult time.

"Indonesia stands ready to provide all necessary support for recovery efforts in the affected areas," he said.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong also extended condolences and said they are engaging with “regional and humanitarian partners in the response.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said New Delhi is ready to offer assistance.

"Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) to remain in touch with the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand," Modi wrote on X.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry also extended condolences.

"We are deeply saddened by the heartbreaking news of the devastating earthquake that has struck Myanmar, Thailand, and neighboring countries. Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by this tragedy, and we are praying for all those affected as well as for the speedy recovery of the injured," the Pakistani Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also extended condolences to the governments and people of the region.

"The (UN) system in the region is mobilizing to help those in need," Guterres said on X.

So far, at least 144 people have been killed and hundreds of others injured in Myanmar while at least 6 people died and 117 others were trapped or missing in Thailand after a skyscraper collapsed in Bangkok following a strong 7.7 magnitude earthquake with an epicenter in Myanmar's Sagaing region on Friday.

The first jolt was followed by a 6.4-magnitude earthquake 12 minutes later, according to the US Geological Survey.

*Ahmad Adil contributed to this story from New Delhi.