Statement on the Situation in Myanmar

– I am deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation in Myanmar. The earthquake that struck on Friday is a crisis on top of an already critical humanitarian situation. Before the earthquake, 20 million people were in need of humanitarian assistance. Some of the areas around the earthquake’s epicenter are among the hardest hit by armed conflict, with nearly 1.5 million internally displaced persons.

– It is absolutely crucial that humanitarian aid reaches the areas with the greatest needs as quickly as possible. Prior to the earthquake, Norway had decided to contribute 120 million NOK to various humanitarian organizations in Myanmar. These are flexible funds that allow organizations to rapidly channel resources toward emergency response. Their local partners are on the front lines.

– I am pleased that the UN’s emergency relief fund, CERF, has already allocated 5 million dollars for the immediate response to the earthquake. Norway contributes approximately 10 percent of this fund. Having such funds is essential for rapid response, and Norway has invested in several such mechanisms.

– Myanmar is a country in conflict, and I am concerned about humanitarian access to areas not controlled by the military regime. A state of emergency has been declared in six states, and the military regime has asked the international community for assistance. I urge the leaders of the military regime to adhere to humanitarian principles and to ensure full and unhindered access to the affected areas. In areas controlled by opposition groups, I urge them to do the same.