Farewell Ceremony: International medical assistance for quake-hit communities

A farewell and appreciation ceremony was hosted for the German emergency medical team who had completed their healthcare missions in Myanmar. Union Minister for Health, Professor Dr. Thet Khaing Win, on behalf of the Chairman of the National Disaster Management Committee, attended the event held on Thursday.

The ceremony began with a one-minute silence observed by attendees in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the recent severe Mandalay earthquake. Following this, the Union Minister, member of the National Disaster Management Committee, gave a speech expressing gratitude.

He noted that, as of April 23, the earthquake had resulted in 3,759 deaths, 5,107 injuries, and 114 missing persons. He acknowledged the contribution of 23 emergency medical teams from 16 countries that provided healthcare services in response to the disaster.

Among these, the German emergency medical team (Humedica) began operations on April 15, based at the 300-bed Nay Pyi Taw General Hospital, where they provided critical healthcare services for nearly 1,000 emergency and outpatient cases, along with the provision of essential medical supplies for patients. On behalf of the Government and people of Myanmar, the Union Minister expressed appreciation to the German government, its citizens, and the Humedica team for their invaluable support.

He also highlighted the ongoing efforts by the Ministry, in line with the guidance of the Prime Minister, to deliver comprehensive healthcare services and rehabilitation for those injured or disabled by the disaster. The Union Minister then presented a certificate of appreciation and commemorative gifts to the German medical team.

Additionally, on April 23, Union Minister Professor Dr. Thet Khaing Win visited the 300-bed Nay Pyi Taw General Hospital, where the International Medical Corps (USA) and Humedica (Germany) are providing healthcare services to about 100 outpatients daily. The Union Minister held friendly discussions with the teams and coordinated necessary requirements.