Hungary provides emergency aid to Myanmar earthquake survivors

The state secretary in charge of the programme and aid to persecuted Christians said on Monday that Hungary’s government is providing 5 million forints (EUR 12,420) in emergency humanitarian aid through the Hungary Helps scheme to the survivors of last week’s Myanmar earthquake.

Tristan Azbej said on Facebook that the aid beneficiary is Caritas Hungary, the aid organisation of the Catholic Church, which, through its local Catholic partner, can deliver the aid directly to those who need it.

The state secretary said the people of Myanmar need not just food, water, and medical care but also hope and solidarity. “Hungary, building on its Christian values and humanity, stands with those in need at this difficult time,” he added.

Azbej noted that last Friday’s 7.7-magnitude earthquake was one of Myanmar’s worst natural disasters of the past century. More than 1,700 people have been confirmed dead, close to 3,400 were injured and 300 people are unaccounted for, he said, adding that experts expect these figures to rise. The search for survivors and relief efforts are made more difficult by the ongoing civil war and damaged infrastructure, he said.