The Vietnam People’s Army (VPA) is deploying 79 soldiers to assist with earthquake relief in Myanmar, with the mission set to commence tomorrow (March 30).

Today, the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army held a conference to discuss the mobilization of a relief force to support Myanmar after a devastating earthquake struck the country. The rescue force, organized by the Rescue and Relief Department in collaboration with other relevant agencies, will include 79 soldiers.

Comprehensive relief force deployment

The relief force will consist of command personnel, communication and propaganda units, rescue and search teams from the Engineer Command, as well as trainers and search dogs from the Border Guard Command. A medical team will also be included to provide healthcare support.

Colonel Pham Hai Chau, Deputy Director of the Rescue and Relief Department under the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army, has been appointed as the mission commander.

The General Department of Logistics and Technical Services, in cooperation with the Military Personnel Department, has prepared necessary supplies, equipment, and vehicles to ensure mobility and efficient rescue operations. The force will focus on logistical and technical support for search and rescue tasks, as well as the delivery of relief supplies to the affected areas.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has coordinated with the Air Defense-Air Force Service and civilian airlines to arrange transportation of the task force, equipment, and relief goods to the epicenter in Myanmar.

High international responsibility

Senior Lieutenant General Huynh Chien Thang, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army, emphasized that deploying the VPA for humanitarian aid and disaster relief in Myanmar demonstrates Vietnam’s strong sense of responsibility to the international community.

He stressed the importance of efficient coordination between the Rescue and Relief Department, the Foreign Relations Department, the Engineer Corps, the General Department of Logistics and Technical Services, and other related units. All logistical preparations and procedural work must be completed swiftly to ensure that the mission can depart as scheduled.

Preparedness and international cooperation

The mission’s vehicles and technical equipment will be optimized for dual-use functionality, ensuring easy mobility and transport. Additionally, relief materials and supplies will be prioritized to support affected communities.

The deployment also emphasizes coordination with international forces and local authorities in Myanmar, showcasing the admirable qualities of the Vietnam People’s Army and leaving a positive impression on both international partners and local residents.

Myanmar earthquake update

The 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar released energy equivalent to over 300 atomic bomb explosions. Myanmar’s media reported that the death toll has risen to at least 1,000, with more than 2,300 injured.

In February 2023, the Vietnam People’s Army also sent 76 officers and professional soldiers to assist in earthquake relief efforts in Turkey. At that time, Vietnam was among the first countries to dispatch search and rescue teams from both the Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of Public Security, an act of solidarity highly praised by Turkish leaders and the international community.

Tran Thuong