Bangkok--27 Nov--UNISBKK
“Continued commitment by Tripartite Core Group to recovery efforts for Nargis survivors”
The Tripartite Core Group (TCG) convened a high-level Roundtable on Post Nargis Relief and Recovery Efforts in Yangon today to review TCG’s current efforts in implementing the relief and recovery activities on the ground, and preparedness planning efforts. The Roundtable also identified the next steps for various stakeholders to ensure progress in the recovery of the Delta and to maintain support for the affected population. More than 100 participants attended the Roundtable, including high-level representatives from ASEAN countries, TCG members, international humanitarian organisations, donors, and media.
In his welcome remarks, Mr. Bansarn Bunnag, Senior ASEAN member to the TCG and Thailand’s Ambassador to the Union of Myanmar said, “ASEAN’s leading role in relief and recovery process of the the Cyclone-hit areas is outstanding. In a way, it is shown to be an invaluable factor in the Post-Nargis relief and recovery efforts. ASEAN, together with the United Nations and the international community, must maintain a concerted effort to help those severely affected by Cyclone Nargis to build back their lives.”
More than six months after Cyclone Nargis struck Myanmar, 63% of the UN’s Revised Flash Appeal of USD 473 million has been raised. However, continuing funds and support are needed.
At the Roundtable, the TCG updated on the progress of the first Periodic Review report. The Periodic Review teams have finished collecting the data at the township level and the preliminary findings were shared . The full report will be launched at the ASEAN-UN Summit Meeting in Thailand in mid-December 2008.
Deputy Foreign Minister of Myanmar and TCG Chairman U Kyaw Thu said, “The outcome of the Periodic Review is important in that it will not only inform us on the current needs for people on the ground, it will be a driving wheel in the recovery processes.”
The progress of the TCG Post-Nargis Recovery and Preparedness Plan (PONREPP) was also reported at the Roundtable. The finalised plan is scheduled to be presented at the ASEAN-UN Summit in mid-December 2008.
“It is important that the TCG continues its constructive engagement to facilitate the cyclone response delivery. Critical elements today are in the sectors of water, shelter and livelihoods, including agriculture. Continued collaborative efforts and support are key to success in the challenges ahead,” said the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Bishow Parajuli.
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The United Nations in Myanmar
Astrid Sehl
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ASEAN Office in Myanmar
Tang Phuong Mai
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