Min Aung Hlaing praises Chinese rescue team after Myanmar earthquake

Visit highlights Myanmar-China cooperation and Paukphaw friendship in disaster response.

Myanmar’s military chief Min Aung Hlaing (center) arrives to meet with earthquake survivors gathered at a hospital compound in Naypyidaw on March 28, 2025, following an earthquake in central Myanmar. Photo by Sai Aung Main/AFP

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

In the wake of the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar, State Administration Council Chairman Min Aung Hlaing praised the heroic efforts of the Chinese rescue team during a visit to their emergency camp in Mandalay on Sunday, April 6. The visit served not only as a gesture of gratitude but also as a powerful symbol of the enduring Paukphaw—or brotherly—friendship between Myanmar and China.

The focus of the visit was to recognize the extraordinary contribution made by the China International Search and Rescue Team, along with the rescue squad from Hong Kong China, both of which responded quickly and effectively following the earthquake. The disaster, which severely affected communities across central Myanmar, prompted a significant international response—but the Chinese teams were among the first and most active.

“The arrival of the Chinese rescue team from afar to support us in our time of need is an embodiment of the profound Paukphaw friendship between our nations,” Min Aung Hlaing told those gathered at the site. His words were filled with appreciation, acknowledging the experience, dedication, and professionalism of the team that had traveled across borders to assist in the emergency response.

Chinese rescue team saves lives in Mandalay

As of April 6, the Chinese rescue team had successfully saved nine people trapped in the rubble caused by the earthquake. These rescues occurred in some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable—damaged buildings, unstable terrain, and aftershock threats.

Min Aung Hlaing was visibly moved by the stories of these successful rescues. He took time to personally thank members of the rescue squads, shaking hands and posing for photos, while also listening to briefings about their efforts. His appreciation was echoed by Mandalay Regional Government Chief U Myo Aung and Chinese Consul General Gao Ping, both of whom joined him during the visit.

In his remarks, Min Aung Hlaing emphasized the Chinese team’s strong background in cross-border disaster response. “They came with not only advanced equipment but also valuable expertise,” he said. “Their swift action and success in saving lives set an inspiring example for future cooperation between our countries.”

A testament to Paukphaw friendship

Throughout the visit, Paukphaw friendship emerged as a recurring theme. This term refers to the historically close and fraternal relationship between China and Myanmar, a bond forged through shared culture, diplomacy, and now, mutual aid during times of crisis.

Min Aung Hlaing described the rescue mission as “a shining example” of this friendship in action. The cooperation on display was not only about saving lives but also about building deeper, trust-based relations between the two neighboring nations. In his words, the collaboration “is not temporary—it must be expanded.”

Deeper cooperation in disaster response

Min Aung Hlaing said Myanmar is committed to strengthening communication channels with China in the field of emergency response. He proposed more training exchanges, joint simulations, and knowledge-sharing sessions between rescue professionals from both nations.

“Our goal is not just to respond better to natural disasters,” he said, “but to develop systems that help prevent or mitigate their impact in the first place.” He expressed interest in establishing a formal partnership framework focused on disaster risk reduction, with China as a key partner.

The Chinese Consul General in Mandalay, Gao Ping, responded positively to the proposal. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to standing beside Myanmar during times of hardship, saying, “Our shared future depends on how well we support each other, especially when the stakes are highest.”

The road to recovery in Myanmar

Although the rescue efforts brought hope, Myanmar now faces the difficult task of rebuilding. Entire villages have been damaged or destroyed, with infrastructure, schools, and health centers heavily affected. Relief teams are working to distribute food, water, and temporary shelter supplies to displaced residents.

Min Aung Hlaing pledged that the government would prioritize rebuilding efforts in quake-hit areas and ensure that international aid, including China’s support, would be utilized effectively and transparently. “Our people have suffered. But with solidarity, both domestic and international, we will rise again,” he said.

China’s global role in humanitarian assistance

The performance of the Chinese rescue team in Myanmar is consistent with a broader trend of China taking on a larger role in global humanitarian efforts. Over the past decade, Chinese rescue and emergency response teams have been deployed to disaster zones across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Their effectiveness, training, and readiness have gained international recognition.

For Myanmar, the arrival of the Chinese team in Mandalay not only brought technical expertise but also a morale boost to first responders and survivors alike. Their presence reminded everyone that Myanmar is not alone in its time of crisis.

Gratitude, unity, and future collaboration

Min Aung Hlaing’s visit to the Chinese rescue team in Mandalay was more than a diplomatic formality. It was a heartfelt moment that captured the essence of bilateral cooperation during times of trial. His praise for the team reaffirmed the strength of the Paukphaw friendship and set a hopeful tone for continued collaboration between China and Myanmar in disaster preparedness and emergency management.

As the country begins its long journey toward recovery, the contributions of international allies—led by China—will remain a vital part of the story. The rescue efforts may have begun with an earthquake, but they now pave the way for a new chapter in regional solidarity and mutual support.

Min Aung Hlaing praises Chinese rescue team after Myanmar earthquake—a headline that reflects not only a moment of appreciation but also a broader message: in times of crisis, strong partnerships can make all the difference.