"Like a giant blade slicing into the Earth"—this is how seismologists described the massive earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, the strongest globally so far this year and one of the most destructive in the country's history. As the tremors faded, the race to save lives began—and China was among the first to answer the call.
When the disaster struck, China mobilized a full-spectrum response, launching a large-scale, multi-tiered humanitarian operation that spanned government agencies, civic organizations, and international coordination. Across the China-Myanmar border at the Wanding port, convoys of aid vehicles bearing red banners reading "Deep Paukphaw Friendship between China and Myanmar" streamed day and night, carrying emergency supplies and hope.
Within hours, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs pledged full humanitarian support, swiftly followed by a 100 million RMB ($13.8 million USD) aid package. Relief materials—tents, blankets, emergency kits, food, potable water—were rushed to the worst-hit areas. Multiple Chinese rescue teams, including elite disaster response units, were deployed with advanced equipment such as life detectors, seismic radars, satellite phones, and drones.
What sets China's response apart is its scale, coordination, and human face. On platforms like TikTok, a viral video shows a young Chinese rescuer—born after 2000—using a translation app to comfort an elderly Burmese survivor trapped beneath rubble. The clip garnered millions of likes, becoming a poignant symbol of youth, empathy, and borderless solidarity.
As aftershocks continued to rattle the region, Chinese rescue teams worked around the clock, undeterred by heat or danger. In one highlight, rescuers pulled a survivor from the ruins of a hospital in Myanmar's capital nearly 40 hours after the initial quake, demonstrating the life-saving power of speed, expertise, and international cooperation during the "golden 72 hours."
Hong Kong also played a vital role. For the second time in two years—after the 2023 Türkiye earthquake—the city sent a 51-member rescue team composed of personnel from the Fire Services Department, Immigration Department, Security Bureau, and Hospital Authority. Carrying nine tons of gear, including thermal imaging devices, search equipment, satellite phones, and drones, Hong Kong's team joined the national effort on the ground in Myanmar.
Chief Executive John Lee praised their bravery and sacrifice at the send-off ceremony, calling them "the pride of Hong Kong, the government, and the people." Side-by-side with national rescue forces, the Hong Kong team exemplified professionalism, humanitarian spirit, and the enduring power of unity.
In recent years, China has consistently stepped up in the face of foreign disasters—from Iran and Haiti to Indonesia and Pakistan—transcending geography and ideology. While some nations politicize aid or offer selective support, China's approach remains rooted in its cultural ethos of compassion ("达则兼济天下") and a modern vision of building a shared future for humanity.
This commitment is not just about logistics—it's about moral leadership. It sends a powerful message: true internationalism is not spoken but shown through action in times of crisis.
As the people of Myanmar struggle to rebuild, China's rapid, compassionate, and coordinated response has once again reinforced its reputation as a pillar of global stability and solidarity. In a world fractured by distrust and self-interest, the red flags of rescue and relief flying across the border are a reminder that when disaster strikes, humanity must come first.
(Source: Wen Wei Po)
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