Heartfelt farewell: SAC Vice Chairman honored the Chinese rescue teams

On March 28, a strong earthquake and subsequent aftershocks occurred in Myanmar, causing significant destruction and loss. Following this, emergency rescue operations were carried out in Myanmar, and with the completion of these operations, a ceremony was held on April 8 in Nay Pyi Taw at the Tabaung Ground to honor the Chinese emergency rescue teams that had been involved.

The ceremony was attended by the Chairman of the National Natural Disaster Management Committee, Vice Chairman of State Administration Council Deputy Prime Minister Vice Senior General Soe Win, who expressed his gratitude and gave an address in honor of the teams.

Initially, the SAC Vice Chairman Deputy Prime Minister, along with those present, observed a moment of silence in remembrance of those who lost their lives and the extensive damage caused by the intense earthquake on March 28, 2025, in which many lives were lost and destruction occurred.

This moment of silence was held as a mark of respect and sorrow for the victims. Subsequently, in his speech, the SAC Vice Chairman highlighted the devastating impact of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that occurred on March 28, which caused significant fatalities and widespread damage.

He also mentioned that, as of today, 96 aftershocks had been recorded. He shared his condolences, stating that in remembrance of this tragic event, the period from March 31, to April 6, 2025, was observed as a national mourning period.

During this time, the national flag was flown at half-mast. The earthquake caused damage across the country, affecting 48,834 homes, 3,094 monasteries and nunneries, 2,045 schools, 2,171 departmental office buildings, 148 bridges, and 5,275 pagodas and stupas. As of April 7, 2025, 3,550 people had died, 4,814 were injured, and 160 people were missing.

The emergency rescue teams, including those from China, have been instrumental in search and rescue operations. As of today, they have successfully rescued 653 people and located the bodies of 700 victims. The Chinese government sent a total of four rescue teams, consisting of 265 personnel, to Myanmar.

From March 29 to March 30, 2025, the China International Search and Rescue Team (CISAR) (Beijing), along with other Chinese teams, contributed significantly to the search efforts, for which Myanmar expressed deep gratitude. The SAC Vice Chairman also thanked the government of the People's Republic of China, led by President His Excellency Mr. Xi Jinping, for their immediate and ongoing assistance.

He acknowledged the swift response from Chinese teams including those from Beijing, Hong Kong, and Yunnan province, and recognized the continuous support in providing both rescue operations and essential relief supplies. As of today, 447.69 tons of relief materials have been sent, with an additional 110 tons expected to arrive.

The SAC Vice Chairman expressed profound appreciation for the solidarity shown by neighboring countries and the international community, particularly China's help during this difficult time. He also emphasized the importance of the continuous humanitarian assistance and the cooperation between the two nations.

At the end of the ceremony, SAC Vice Chairman presented certificates of appreciation and mementos to the Chinese rescue teams. He also hosted a reception with food and drinks for the Chinese teams, offering heartfelt thanks for their dedicated service. The Chinese rescue teams, having completed their operations and achieved a high level of search and rescue success (ASR Level 4), are now preparing to leave Myanmar, though they have pledged to continue supporting Myanmar in rebuilding efforts by providing necessary relief materials and technical assistance in the future.