Chinese rescue teams return home from Myanmar quake relief mission

Chinese rescue teams returning from the earthquake relief mission in Myanmar were met at the Beijing International Airport by Liu Junfeng, vice-chairman of the China International Development Cooperation Agency, on April 9.

In response to the major earthquake which struck Myanmar on March 28, the Chinese government immediately announced provision of 100 million yuan ($13.6 million) in emergency assistance. Multiple rescue groups, including the China Search and Rescue Team, the China International Search and Rescue Team, and the search and rescue team from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, travelled swiftly to Myanmar to maximize the chances of finding as many survivors as possible. The teams rescued multiple quake survivors, provided emergency medical treatment, conducted epidemic prevention and disinfection measures, and performed safety assessments.

To date, China has delivered five batches of supplies to Myanmar. A sixth batch, consisting of 550 tons of tents, blankets, first-aid kits, hygiene kits, food, drinking water and solar emergency lights, will be dispatched via chartered flights on April 11.

Liu said China will provide further assistance within its means to Myanmar, based on the country's needs, in what is a practical demonstration of a community with a shared future.