The ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Senior Officials meeting in Singapore today discussed the humanitarian disaster caused by Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar. We expressed our sympathy at the massive destruction and loss of lives, and we stand ready to help Myanmar in both its relief and reconstruction efforts. We noted that the situation in Myanmar remains very difficult, and the Myanmar authorities are doing their best to deal with it. However, there is a need for more assistance. We noted that many ARF member countries have offered substantial assistance to Myanmar, and are prepared to do more. We also stressed the importance of speeding up the arrangements to receive and deploy aid, material and relief personnel to the stricken areas. During the meeting, we suggested that the authorities in Myanmar could establish a coordinating mechanism that could work with the international community and aid agencies, to assess the damages and needs in the affected areas, as well as facilitate in-country distribution of humanitarian assistance, and entry and deployment of rescue and medical personnel and equipment.
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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
9 MAY 2008