Secretary-General deeply saddened by loss of life after cylcone hits myanmar;

says United Nations prepared to assist, mobilize international aid

The following statement was issued by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban ki-moon on 4 May:

The Secretary-General is deeply saddened by the loss of life and the destruction suffered by the people of Myanmar after Cyclone Nargis struck the country on 2 May.  He extends his deepest condolences to the families of those who have been killed, injured or made homeless because of the storm.

As a first step, a United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) has been organized and is on stand by to assist the Government in responding to humanitarian needs, if required.

The United Nations is also prepared to extend other necessary assistance and to mobilize international aid in support of the Government, if needed.

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For information media • not an official record