Sign in Subscribe
Earthquakes

Thai Mercy Mission Delivers Aid to Earthquake-Hit Japan

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Chamlong Srimuang led a mercy mission to Japan, delivering essential goods to those affected by the devastating earthquake. Upon returning to Thailand, Chamlong shared the gratitude of the Japanese people, expressing their appreciation for the donated blankets, noodles, and sticky rice. The mission's arrival in Hyoko province was welcomed by the deputy governor, and Chamlong described the scene as one of "great sadness" and "gratitude". The Thai Prime Minister, Chuan Leekpai, has offered to provide mobile medical teams to assist in the relief efforts.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Thai mercy mission delivered 4,000 blankets, 3,000 cups of instant noodles, and 700 kg of sticky rice to earthquake-battered Japan.
  • The blankets were specifically donated to address the homelessness and freezing temperatures in the affected areas.
  • Chamlong Srimuang, Thai Deputy Prime Minister, expressed the gratitude of the Japanese people, stating that Thailand was the first country to visit and acknowledge their grief.
  • The Japanese people were particularly fond of the donated Thai sticky rice, known as Khaolam.
  • The situation in Kobe and other hard-hit areas was described as "very confused", with some people criticizing the Japanese military and government agencies for their slow response.
  • Thai Prime Minister Chuan Leekpai has offered to provide Thai mobile medical teams to assist in the relief efforts, which Japan is still studying.
  • The National Disaster Prevention Committee, chaired by Chamlong, will use Japan as a case study to prevent similar disasters from occurring in Thailand.

Statistics:

  • 4,000 blankets were donated to Japan by the Thai mercy mission.
  • 3,000 cups of instant noodles were donated to Japan by the Thai mercy mission.
  • 700 kg (1,543 lbs) of sticky rice were donated to Japan by the Thai mercy mission.
  • 37 other countries, in addition to Thailand, have offered to provide aid to Japan in the aftermath of the earthquake.
  • The Thai mercy mission traveled by ship from Osaka to Hyoko province.

Sources:

  • United Press International, 1995.

Read more