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Burma Relents on Foreign Docs, Aid Workers

But only from ASEAN member nations

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted May 19, 2008 7:21 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Two and a half weeks after cyclone Nargis hit, Burma finally agreed today to allow foreign medics and disaster experts into the battered country, reports the BBC—but only from ASEAN member nations. UN chief Ban Ki-Moon also plans to jet to Burma on Wednesday to bring additional pressure to bear to speed relief to save thousands of children from starving to death.

ASEAN, the organization of Southeast Asian nations, announced the agreement after a meeting in Singapore today, and pledged to coordinate the international relief effort. Britain's Asia minister, meanwhile, said negotiations may be turning a corner to accelerate international aid to some 2.5 million survivors of the cyclone that killed at least 134,000 people. "But, like all turning points in Burma, the corner will have a few 'S' bends in it," he said.

A young cyclone survivor peeks out from inside a temporary shelter on the outskirts of Yangon, Myanmar on Saturday May 17, 2008.
A young cyclone survivor peeks out from inside a temporary shelter on the outskirts of Yangon, Myanmar on Saturday May 17, 2008.   (AP Photo)
Tibetan exile monks and nuns offer prayers to the victims of disasters in China and Myanmar at Baudhanath Stupa near Katmandu, Nepal.
Tibetan exile monks and nuns offer prayers to the victims of disasters in China and Myanmar at Baudhanath Stupa near Katmandu, Nepal.   (AP Photo/Binod Joshi)
Children used their empty bowls as hats in the rain as they wait for food in front of a relief center.
Children used their empty bowls as hats in the rain as they wait for food in front of a relief center.   (AP Photo)
A Myanmar boy stands next to a box of supplies handed over to survivors of Cyclone Nargis in Labutta, Myanmar. One relief organization says thousands of children face starvation.
A Myanmar boy stands next to a box of supplies handed over to survivors of Cyclone Nargis in Labutta, Myanmar. One relief organization says thousands of children face starvation.   (AP Photo/Malteser International)
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Outrage grows as Myanmar continues to block most aid
International Herald Tribune

Junta leader makes first visit to relief camp
New Zealand Herald

Children 'face hunger deaths'
Gulf Daily News

International pressure on Myanmar junta is building
New York Times

 
United Nations • aid workers • Myanmar • Yangon • ASEAN • Than Shwe • military junta • Save the Children • World Food Program • Cyclone Nargis • Irrawaddy Delta • Ban Ki-moon

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