April 06, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has dispatched a dedicated humanitarian relief mission to Myanmar in the wake of a powerful earthquake that has caused significant destruction and loss across the Southeast Asian nation.
A 26-member team, comprising medical and disaster response personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force, departed from Colombo on April 05 aboard a specially chartered flight to provide immediate assistance to affected communities.
The relief contingent is led by Brigadier Punya Karunathilake and is tasked with delivering essential aid, offering medical support, and contributing to recovery operations in collaboration with Myanmar’s local authorities.
The mission forms part of a broader emergency response initiative coordinated at the highest levels of government.
Under the guidance of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the close supervision of Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retired), the deployment demonstrates Sri Lanka’s capacity for rapid and organised humanitarian mobilisation.
The tri-forces, acting in unison, have once again underscored their ability to respond swiftly and compassionately to crises beyond national borders.
The humanitarian cargo includes medical supplies, food items, and other critical essentials, donated by the people of Sri Lanka in a show of solidarity with the people of Myanmar.
The effort has been led by the country’s monastic community, with the Venerable Maha Sangha and the Chief Prelates of the three principal Buddhist chapters playing a central role in mobilising public support and spiritual guidance for the mission.
Diplomatic coordination for the operation was facilitated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, whose officials ensured the logistical and regulatory frameworks were aligned for the team’s entry and cooperation with Myanmar’s disaster management agencies.
The ministry worked in close partnership with its counterparts in Naypyidaw, underscoring the strong diplomatic ties between the two countries.
SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier, has played a pivotal role in enabling the mission’s swift deployment by offering logistical support and facilitating the transport of personnel and cargo to the affected region.
The Sri Lankan government has reiterated its intention to continue monitoring the situation in Myanmar and to offer further assistance as needed. The gesture has drawn praise from both local and international observers, who view this response as part of Sri Lanka’s growing role in regional disaster relief efforts, especially in times of acute humanitarian need.
