Armenia expresses condolences over Myanmar earthquake

PanARMENIAN.Net - The Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has extended condolences and solidarity to Myanmar, Thailand, and neighboring countries following the devastating earthquake that struck the region. The statement was shared on the Ministry’s official X account.

“We are shocked by the terrifying news of the earthquake in Myanmar, Thailand, and nearby countries, which has claimed so many lives. We pray for all affected and wish for a swift recovery from this disaster,” the post read.

On March 28, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar, with tremors felt in five neighboring countries, including Thailand. The epicenter was near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city.

The quake caused extensive destruction and significant casualties. According to the BBC, more than 1,000 people have died and thousands more have been injured.

Mandalay, the closest major city to the epicenter, has reported the highest number of fatalities. A local rescue team told the BBC: “We are digging with our bare hands to get people out,” underlining the urgency of ongoing rescue efforts.

In Thailand, tremors were also felt, and in Bangkok, a partially built high-rise collapsed. Authorities have confirmed six deaths, with around 100 construction workers still missing. Rescue operations are underway, with teams working to locate and assist those trapped beneath the debris.

Myanmar’s government has issued a call for international aid, despite the country’s political isolation and the heavy sanctions imposed by Western nations in recent years. Strict military control and the civil war have made it difficult to assess the full extent of the disaster.

The international community has begun responding to Myanmar’s appeal. The United States has announced it will provide aid, with USAID disaster experts ready to assist. Other countries and international organizations are also mobilizing resources to support relief efforts in the affected areas.

The earthquake has worsened Myanmar’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, compounding the challenges of political instability and conflict. The combination of a natural disaster and civil unrest poses serious obstacles to delivering aid and carrying out recovery operations.