We once again reiterate our sincerest gratitude to the people, leaders, and government of the United States of America for providing generous funding of over $20 million USD in COVID-19 related assistance to Myanmar in this darkest moment in our history. This COVID-19 Delta variant crisis has been surging across Myanmar and causing unspeakable pain and loss to the people of Myanmar who have already suffered so much for so long under the military junta reign of terror. Had this failed coup not have taken place on the 1^st of February, over 20% of our people could have been vaccinated against COVID-19 by the end of April, earlier this year. This immense loss of life of our families and communities could have been prevented and mitigated. We are however extremely thankful that this generous funding will enable millions of people in Myanmar to protect themselves from COVID-19, and we salute our front-line medical personnel fighting COVID-19, including NGO health workers and facilities, ethnic health organisations, international partners and agencies, including UNICEF, Global Funds and Gavi. Any attempt to obstruct or attack medical personnel and aid workers is directly against humanitarian law and principles. These COVID-19 vaccines, oxygen and relief aid assistance must be allowed to reach directly to the people of Myanmar. It is clear, therefore, that the military junta is directly responsible for this COVID-19 and humanitarian crises in Myanmar.

Official Statement from the United States of America:

“U.S. Ambassador Thomas L. Vajada on behalf of the U.S Embassy, I extend sincerest condolences for the loves of the Myanmar people who have been lost to the pandemic. The current surge of COVID-19 infections has taken a cruel toll on families and communities who have already suffered so much, including our won Embassy colleagues. The people of Myanmar, and those who seek to help meet their urgent health needs, must be able to love and work in safety.

“The United States remains steadfastly committed to the people of Myanmar as they strive for a return to the path of democracy and now confront a worsening pandemic. Since the outbreak began in 2020, we have provided more than $20 million in COVID-19 related assistance to Myanmar, which has enabled millions of people to protect themselves from infection and seek the help they need. We have already supported more than 650 non-governmental primary health facilities, including health organisations operated by ethnic minority groups, severing people affected by COVID-19. U.S. Ambassador to the United States Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced this more than $50 million in critical humanitarian assistance to the people of Burma, including for those forced to flee violence and persecution in the wake of the military coup. This aid will enable our international and NGO partners to provide emergency food assistance, life-saving protection, shelter, and essential health care to the people of Burma.

“However more can and must be done.

“The United States continues to provide significant funding to international partners, including the Global Fund and Gavi, to support the people of Myanmar in overcoming this public health crisis.

“We are united in our efforts to expand access in Myanmar to COVID-19 testing, clinical care including oxygen, food assistance, and vaccines in a manner that directly supports the people of Myanmar and in accordance with humanitarian principles.

“As President Biden said on June 10, “We value the inherent dignity of all people. In times of trouble, Americans reach out to offer help and to offer a helping hand. That’s who we are.”

Once again, we reiterate our deepest gratitude, not only for this $20 million Covid-19 assistance, but also for the previously announced $50 million is relief aid for the people of Myanmar. We, the people of Myanmar, respect and appreciate the United States of America for standing with us, supporting us, and being a leader of democracy in the world.

Statement of US Ambassador to Myanmar

H.E. Dr. Sasa
Union Minister of Ministry of International Cooperation
Spoke Person of Nation Unity Government
Former Special Envoy to United Nations