Myanmar's military junta on Friday said the death toll from Cyclone Mocha has reached 145. Most of the dead, as per the news agency AFP, belong to the persecuted Rohingya minority. In a statement, the junta said that out of the 145 dead, 24 were locals, four were soldiers and the rest 117 were "Bengalis" — a pejorative term for the Rohingya.

"Altogether 145 local people were killed during the cyclone," said the authorities in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Media reports of higher Rohingya death toll "not true"</h2>

The junta statement also said that media reports of around 400 Rohingya dead were "not true". As per the statement, action would be taken against the outlets that publish the number.

Since it ousted the elected government more than two years ago, the junta, as per AFP, has arrested scores of journalists and has closed outlets deemed critical of its rule.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/in-myanmars-rakhine-locals-say-hundreds-have-died-due-to-cyclone-mocha-official-figures-claim-only-3-dead-593071">In Myanmar's Rakhine, locals say hundreds have died due to Cyclone Mocha; official figures claim only 3 dead</a>

<h2>United Nations on Cyclone Mocha's damage to Myanmar</h2>

On Friday, the United Nations in a statement said that at least 800,000 people in Myanmar have been affected by Cyclone Mocha.

It said that the affected people need emergency food aid and other assistance.

According to Anthea Webb, the UN World Food Programme's deputy regional director for Asia and the Pacific, the cyclone caused extensive damage in Myanmar's Rakhine State, with massive destruction to homes, roads, hospitals, schools, and telecommunications and power lines.

"There are at least 800,000 people in urgent need of emergency food assistance," said Webb,&nbsp;adding that "greater needs for food, shelter, water, health and other humanitarian aid are expected to be revealed as we reach more areas."

<h2>International aid</h2>

AFP reports that a few international aid groups, including the United Nations World Food Programme, have been working on the ground in Sittwe.

However, a junta spokesperson remained silent about whether UN agencies would be granted access to displacement camps outside Sittwe that house Rohingya.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cylcone-mocha-indian-navy-rushes-to-help-battered-myanmar-593724">Cyclone Mocha: Indian Navy ships rush relief material to battered Myanmar, many feared dead</a>

Myanmar state media on Tuesday reported that "offers from the international community for providing aid have been accepted."

"But relief and rehabilitation tasks must be done through existing united strength," added the Global New Light of Myanmar.

<h2>Cyclone Mocha and the damage it did to Myanmar</h2>

On Sunday, the cyclone brought lashing rain and winds of 195 kilometres per hour (120 miles per hour) to Myanmar and neighbouring Bangladesh.&nbsp;

The high-speed winds collapsed buildings, turned streets into rivers, uprooted trees and also knocked out communications across much of Myanmar's Rakhine state, which is home to hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees who following decades of ethnic conflict, have been living there in displacement camps.

<h2>The Rohingyas</h2>

In Myanmar, Rohingyas are widely viewed as interlopers from Bangladesh. As per AFP, they are denied citizenship and access to health care in the country. To travel outside of the townships, they require permission.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Myanmar's military junta on Friday said the death toll from Cyclone Mocha has reached 145. Most of the dead, as per the news agency AFP, belong to the persecuted Rohingya minority.

Myanmar's military junta on Friday said the death toll from Cyclone Mocha has reached 145. Most of the dead, as per the news agency AFP, belong to the persecuted Rohingya minority. In a statement, the junta said that out of the 145 dead, 24 were locals, four were soldiers and the rest 117 were "Bengalis" — a pejorative term for the Rohingya. "Altogether 145 local people were killed during the cyclone," said the authorities in a statement. Media reports of higher Rohingya death toll "not true" The junta statement also said that media reports of around 400 Rohingya dead were "not true". As per the statement, action would be taken against the outlets that publish the number. Since it ousted the elected government more than two years ago, the junta, as per AFP, has arrested scores of journalists and has closed outlets deemed critical of its rule. Also read | In Myanmar's Rakhine, locals say hundreds have died due to Cyclone Mocha; official figures claim only 3 dead United Nations on Cyclone Mocha's damage to Myanmar On Friday, the United Nations in a statement said that at least 800,000 people in Myanmar have been affected by Cyclone Mocha. It said that the affected people need emergency food aid and other assistance. According to Anthea Webb, the UN World Food Programme's deputy regional director for Asia and the Pacific, the cyclone caused extensive damage in Myanmar's Rakhine State, with massive destruction to homes, roads, hospitals, schools, and telecommunications and power lines. "There are at least 800,000 people in urgent need of emergency food assistance," said Webb, adding that "greater needs for food, shelter, water, health and other humanitarian aid are expected to be revealed as we reach more areas." International aid AFP reports that a few international aid groups, including the United Nations World Food Programme, have been working on the ground in Sittwe. However, a junta spokesperson remained silent about whether UN agencies would be granted access to displacement camps outside Sittwe that house Rohingya. Also read | Cyclone Mocha: Indian Navy ships rush relief material to battered Myanmar, many feared dead Myanmar state media on Tuesday reported that "offers from the international community for providing aid have been accepted." "But relief and rehabilitation tasks must be done through existing united strength," added the Global New Light of Myanmar. Cyclone Mocha and the damage it did to Myanmar On Sunday, the cyclone brought lashing rain and winds of 195 kilometres per hour (120 miles per hour) to Myanmar and neighbouring Bangladesh. The high-speed winds collapsed buildings, turned streets into rivers, uprooted trees and also knocked out communications across much of Myanmar's Rakhine state, which is home to hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees who following decades of ethnic conflict, have been living there in displacement camps. The Rohingyas In Myanmar, Rohingyas are widely viewed as interlopers from Bangladesh. As per AFP, they are denied citizenship and access to health care in the country. To travel outside of the townships, they require permission. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cyclone Mocha: Myanmar Junta says reports of 400 Rohingya dead 'not true,' claims toll at 145

In Rakhine, Myanmar, hundreds of people are feared dead as Cyclone Mocha hit the nation. On Tuesday, residents and aid groups reported that numerous individuals, including Rohingya Muslims, are believed to have perished after the cyclone struck Myanmar over the weekend.&nbsp;

As per Reuters cyclone Mocha&nbsp;inflicted severe damage on Myanmar's impoverished Rakhine State, with powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 210 kph (130 mph) tearing off roofs and a storm surge that flooded the state capital, Sittwe.

Residents in Rakhine State have reported that at least 100 people have lost their lives, and many more are missing and presumed dead. As per them, unfortunately, aid is yet to reach the affected areas. Additionally, Bangladesh has been facing severe power shortages — its worst power cuts in over seven months — which has exacerbated the challenges in responding to the crisis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyclone-mocha-at-least-six-killed-hundreds-injured-after-powerful-storm-batters-myanmar-592635">Cyclone Mocha: At least six killed, hundreds injured after powerful storm batters Myanmar</a>

The affected region, as per Reuters, is densely populated by Rohingya Muslims, a persecuted minority that successive governments in Myanmar have "refused to recognise".&nbsp;

However, speaking to Reuters, a resident who chose to remain anonymous, said that more than 100 Rohingya Muslims have been killed. He reportedly based this number on his personal&nbsp;assessment&nbsp;of multiple villages he visited after the cyclone.&nbsp;

News portal Myanmar Now also suggested that hundreds were feared dead. Aid groups have also acknowledged the occurrence of a "significant number of deaths".&nbsp;

In contrast to these numbers, Myanmar's state media reported that only three people had been killed.

The reported death toll has not been verified, and there is still uncertainty surrounding the exact number of casualties.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the pro-democracy shadow National Unity Government told Reuters that they had received confirmation of approximately 400 Rohingya deaths, primarily in the Sittwe area.

"We received confirmation of about 400 Rohingya deaths, mainly around Sittwe area".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-cyclone-mocha-causes-devastation-in-myanmar-bangladesh-592475">In Pics | Cyclone Mocha causes devastation in Myanmar, Bangladesh</a>

Ramanathan Balakrishnan, of the UN's Office of Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, said that "It's really a nightmare scenario for the cyclone to hit areas with such deep pre-existing needs." He estimates that approximately 5.4 million people were in the path of the cyclone, a majority of whom were considered vulnerable. Early priorities as r Balakrishnan include shelter, water, sanitation, and relief supplies.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Rakhine, Myanmar, hundreds of people are feared dead as Cyclone Mocha hit the nation. On Tuesday, residents and aid groups reported that numerous individuals, including Rohingya Muslims, are believed to have perished after the cyclone struck Myanmar over the weekend.

In Rakhine, Myanmar, hundreds of people are feared dead as Cyclone Mocha hit the nation. On Tuesday, residents and aid groups reported that numerous individuals, including Rohingya Muslims, are believed to have perished after the cyclone struck Myanmar over the weekend. As per Reuters cyclone Mocha inflicted severe damage on Myanmar's impoverished Rakhine State, with powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 210 kph (130 mph) tearing off roofs and a storm surge that flooded the state capital, Sittwe. Residents in Rakhine State have reported that at least 100 people have lost their lives, and many more are missing and presumed dead. As per them, unfortunately, aid is yet to reach the affected areas. Additionally, Bangladesh has been facing severe power shortages — its worst power cuts in over seven months — which has exacerbated the challenges in responding to the crisis. Also read | Cyclone Mocha: At least six killed, hundreds injured after powerful storm batters Myanmar The affected region, as per Reuters, is densely populated by Rohingya Muslims, a persecuted minority that successive governments in Myanmar have "refused to recognise". However, speaking to Reuters, a resident who chose to remain anonymous, said that more than 100 Rohingya Muslims have been killed. He reportedly based this number on his personal assessment of multiple villages he visited after the cyclone. News portal Myanmar Now also suggested that hundreds were feared dead. Aid groups have also acknowledged the occurrence of a "significant number of deaths". In contrast to these numbers, Myanmar's state media reported that only three people had been killed. The reported death toll has not been verified, and there is still uncertainty surrounding the exact number of casualties. A spokesperson for the pro-democracy shadow National Unity Government told Reuters that they had received confirmation of approximately 400 Rohingya deaths, primarily in the Sittwe area. "We received confirmation of about 400 Rohingya deaths, mainly around Sittwe area". Also read | In Pics | Cyclone Mocha causes devastation in Myanmar, Bangladesh Ramanathan Balakrishnan, of the UN's Office of Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, said that "It's really a nightmare scenario for the cyclone to hit areas with such deep pre-existing needs." He estimates that approximately 5.4 million people were in the path of the cyclone, a majority of whom were considered vulnerable. Early priorities as r Balakrishnan include shelter, water, sanitation, and relief supplies. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In Myanmar's Rakhine, locals say hundreds have died due to Cyclone Mocha; official figures claim only 3 dead

Indian Navy, a regional power in the Bay of Bengal and northern Indian Ocean has rushed humanitarian aid to Myanmar, parts of which have seen devastation due to Cyclone Mocha. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar took to Twitter on Thursday (May 18) to highlight the fact that India 'continues to be first responder in the region'.

"India extends a hand of friendship to the people of Myanmar affected by #CycloneMocha. #OperationKaruna underway. Three Indian Navy ships carrying relief material reached Yangon today. A fourth ship will be reaching tomorrow. The ships are carrying emergency food items, tents, essential medicines, water pumps, portable generators, clothes, sanitary and hygiene items, etc.," tweeted Jaishankar.

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India extends a hand of friendship to the people of Myanmar affected by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneMocha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneMocha</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationKaruna?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationKaruna</a> underway. Three Indian Navy ships carrying relief material reached Yangon today. A fourth ship will be reaching tomorrow. 
 
The ships are carrying emergency food items, tents,… <a href="https://t.co/Ot8Ohm2jpn">pic.twitter.com/Ot8Ohm2jpn</a>
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<h2>Hundreds feared dead</h2>

It is feared that devastation caused by Cyclone Mocha has left hundreds dead. The cyclone struck Myanmar over the weekend. Rescue efforts have been hampered due to damaged infrastructure. Rakhine state, the impoverished part of the country, bore the brunt of Cyclone Mocha. When it hit, the cyclone caused winds of up to 210 kmph (130 mph). These ripped roofs off homes and caused storm surge that caused flooding in Sittwe, capital of the state.

Watch | United Nations: Cyclone Mocha caused extensive damage in Myanmar

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Rakhine region has a large population of Rohingya Muslims, a persecuted minority several successive Myanmar governments have refused to recognise.

<h2>Political chaos in the country</h2>

Myanmar has been gripped by political and economic chaos since the military seized power in a coup in 2021. Since then, fighting has raged across the country between the military and pro-democracy or allied ethnic armed groups.

Residents of Rakhine State said at least 100 people had been killed and many more were missing and feared dead after the cyclone, adding that aid is yet to arrive. Bangladesh faced its worst power cuts in over seven months.

Reuters said it was not able to independently verify the death toll. It quoted news portal Myanmar Now which reported that hundreds were dead while aid groups said there were "significant number of deaths".

Myanmar's state media said three people were killed.

The storm was one of the worst since Cyclone Nargis swept across parts of southern Myanmar killing nearly 140,000 people in 2008.

<h2>Millions affected by storm</h2>

Reuters quoted a United Nations official who said that 5.4 million people were expected to have been in the storm's path.

"It's really a nightmare scenario for the cyclone to hit areas with such deep pre-existing needs," said Ramanathan Balakrishnan at the UN's Office of Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Shelter, water, sanitation, and relief items were early priorities, he said.

Storm damage to communications and road infrastructure and ongoing restrictions by Myanmar's military government was making it difficult to get information from and deliver aid to the affected area, non-governmental organisations said.

"It's difficult to obtain accurate or up to date information, which also makes responding to the crisis adequately even more difficult," said Manny Maung of Human Rights Watch.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Indian Navy, a regional power in the Bay of Bengal and northern Indian Ocean has rushed humanitarian aid to Myanmar, parts of which have seen devastation due to Cyclone Mocha.

Indian Navy, a regional power in the Bay of Bengal and northern Indian Ocean has rushed humanitarian aid to Myanmar, parts of which have seen devastation due to Cyclone Mocha. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar took to Twitter on Thursday (May 18) to highlight the fact that India 'continues to be first responder in the region'. "India extends a hand of friendship to the people of Myanmar affected by #CycloneMocha. #OperationKaruna underway. Three Indian Navy ships carrying relief material reached Yangon today. A fourth ship will be reaching tomorrow. The ships are carrying emergency food items, tents, essential medicines, water pumps, portable generators, clothes, sanitary and hygiene items, etc.," tweeted Jaishankar. India extends a hand of friendship to the people of Myanmar affected by #CycloneMocha. #OperationKaruna underway. Three Indian Navy ships carrying relief material reached Yangon today. A fourth ship will be reaching tomorrow. The ships are carrying emergency food items, tents,… pic.twitter.com/Ot8Ohm2jpn — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 18, 2023 × Hundreds feared dead It is feared that devastation caused by Cyclone Mocha has left hundreds dead. The cyclone struck Myanmar over the weekend. Rescue efforts have been hampered due to damaged infrastructure. Rakhine state, the impoverished part of the country, bore the brunt of Cyclone Mocha. When it hit, the cyclone caused winds of up to 210 kmph (130 mph). These ripped roofs off homes and caused storm surge that caused flooding in Sittwe, capital of the state. Watch | United Nations: Cyclone Mocha caused extensive damage in Myanmar × Rakhine region has a large population of Rohingya Muslims, a persecuted minority several successive Myanmar governments have refused to recognise. Political chaos in the country Myanmar has been gripped by political and economic chaos since the military seized power in a coup in 2021. Since then, fighting has raged across the country between the military and pro-democracy or allied ethnic armed groups. Residents of Rakhine State said at least 100 people had been killed and many more were missing and feared dead after the cyclone, adding that aid is yet to arrive. Bangladesh faced its worst power cuts in over seven months. Reuters said it was not able to independently verify the death toll. It quoted news portal Myanmar Now which reported that hundreds were dead while aid groups said there were "significant number of deaths". Myanmar's state media said three people were killed. The storm was one of the worst since Cyclone Nargis swept across parts of southern Myanmar killing nearly 140,000 people in 2008. Millions affected by storm Reuters quoted a United Nations official who said that 5.4 million people were expected to have been in the storm's path. "It's really a nightmare scenario for the cyclone to hit areas with such deep pre-existing needs," said Ramanathan Balakrishnan at the UN's Office of Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Shelter, water, sanitation, and relief items were early priorities, he said. Storm damage to communications and road infrastructure and ongoing restrictions by Myanmar's military government was making it difficult to get information from and deliver aid to the affected area, non-governmental organisations said. "It's difficult to obtain accurate or up to date information, which also makes responding to the crisis adequately even more difficult," said Manny Maung of Human Rights Watch. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Cyclone Mocha: Indian Navy ships rush relief material to battered Myanmar, many feared dead

A UN expert has claimed that Russia and China have been sending deadly aid to Myanmar's military. The junta has apparently imported at least $1 billion in arms and other materials since it seized power in the country on February 1, 2021, through a coup.&nbsp;

Myanmar's junta reportedly arrested more than 21,000 people after seizing power and ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's government.&nbsp;

In the aftermath, the junta reacted with air strikes and heavy weapons after some opponents of military authority took up arms and joined ethnic minority insurgents in some places.&nbsp;

Tom Andrews, who is the UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Myanmar, alleged in the report that Russian-made Mi-35 helicopters, MiG-29 fighter jets and Yak-130 light aircraft, and Chinese K-8 jets, have been most frequently used to conduct air strikes. Schools, medical facilities, homes and other civilian sites have been targeted.&nbsp;

Andrews said, "Despite overwhelming evidence of the Myanmar military's atrocity crimes against the people of Myanmar, the generals continue to have access to advanced weapons systems, spare parts for fighter jets, raw materials and manufacturing equipment for domestic weapons production."&nbsp;

"Those providing these weapons are able to avoid sanctions by using front companies and creating new ones while counting on lax enforcement," Andrews added.&nbsp;

"The good news is that we now know who is supplying these arms and the jurisdictions in which they operate. Member States now need to step up and stop the flow of these arms," the expert added.

The report said that on April 11, two bombs launched from a Yak-130 on a village gathering organised by the military's opponents in the Sagaing district killed at least 160 people, including around 40 children. But the military calls them "terrorists" and says it is targeting insurgents.&nbsp;

The UN expert used trade data to detail transfers of arms and other goods, including raw materials for Myanmar’s domestic arms production, to the military since the coup worth $406 million from Russia and $267 million from China, including from state-owned entities in both countries.&nbsp;

<h2>'The Billion Dollar Death Trade'&nbsp;</h2>

The UN expert analysed trade data to detail transfers of guns and other products worth $406 million from Russia and $267 million from China to the military since the coup.&nbsp;

The paper titled — "The Billion Dollar Death Trade: International Arms Networks that Enable Human Rights Violations in Myanmar" —basically details post-coup arms transfers to the military to date.&nbsp;

Andrews said, "Russia and China continue to be the main suppliers of advanced weapons systems to the Myanmar military, accounting for over $400 million and $260 million respectively since the coup, with much of the trade originating from state-owned entities. However, arms dealers operating out of Singapore are critical to the continued operation of the Myanmar military’s deadly weapons factories (commonly referred to as KaPaSa)."&nbsp;

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A UN expert has claimed that Russia and China have been sending deadly aid to Myanmar's military. The junta has apparently imported at least $1 billion in arms and other materials since it seized power in the country on February 1, 2021, through a coup.

A UN expert has claimed that Russia and China have been sending deadly aid to Myanmar's military. The junta has apparently imported at least $1 billion in arms and other materials since it seized power in the country on February 1, 2021, through a coup. Myanmar's junta reportedly arrested more than 21,000 people after seizing power and ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's government. In the aftermath, the junta reacted with air strikes and heavy weapons after some opponents of military authority took up arms and joined ethnic minority insurgents in some places. Tom Andrews, who is the UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Myanmar, alleged in the report that Russian-made Mi-35 helicopters, MiG-29 fighter jets and Yak-130 light aircraft, and Chinese K-8 jets, have been most frequently used to conduct air strikes. Schools, medical facilities, homes and other civilian sites have been targeted. Andrews said, "Despite overwhelming evidence of the Myanmar military's atrocity crimes against the people of Myanmar, the generals continue to have access to advanced weapons systems, spare parts for fighter jets, raw materials and manufacturing equipment for domestic weapons production." "Those providing these weapons are able to avoid sanctions by using front companies and creating new ones while counting on lax enforcement," Andrews added. "The good news is that we now know who is supplying these arms and the jurisdictions in which they operate. Member States now need to step up and stop the flow of these arms," the expert added. The report said that on April 11, two bombs launched from a Yak-130 on a village gathering organised by the military's opponents in the Sagaing district killed at least 160 people, including around 40 children. But the military calls them "terrorists" and says it is targeting insurgents. The UN expert used trade data to detail transfers of arms and other goods, including raw materials for Myanmar’s domestic arms production, to the military since the coup worth $406 million from Russia and $267 million from China, including from state-owned entities in both countries. 'The Billion Dollar Death Trade' The UN expert analysed trade data to detail transfers of guns and other products worth $406 million from Russia and $267 million from China to the military since the coup. The paper titled — "The Billion Dollar Death Trade: International Arms Networks that Enable Human Rights Violations in Myanmar" —basically details post-coup arms transfers to the military to date. Andrews said, "Russia and China continue to be the main suppliers of advanced weapons systems to the Myanmar military, accounting for over $400 million and $260 million respectively since the coup, with much of the trade originating from state-owned entities. However, arms dealers operating out of Singapore are critical to the continued operation of the Myanmar military’s deadly weapons factories (commonly referred to as KaPaSa)." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia and China amping up Myanmar's military with 'deadly aid': UN expert

Super Cyclone Mocha, which originated in the Bay of Bengal, made ashore between Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh and Myanmar on Sunday and Monday, wreaking devastation and destroying entire settlements before it dissipated.

United Nations: Cyclone Mocha caused extensive damage in Myanmar

The cyclone is causing mayhem for Rohingya refugees living in low-lying areas disrupting their lives. Authorities in Bangladesh are in emergency mode.

In Pics | Cyclone Mocha causes devastation in Myanmar, Bangladesh

Packing winds of over 200 kilometers per hour, cyclone Mocha slammed into Myanmar's western coast on Sunday, resulting in at least six deaths. Rohit Wellington Rajan brings you the report.

At least 6 dead as super cyclone Mocha strikes Myanmar

The cyclonic storm Mocha has intensified into a very severe one in the Bay of Bengal and has triggered west Myanmar to brace for a looming cyclone with the highest wind speed of 161-177 kilometers per hour (kmph) when it makes landfall on Sunday.

Myanmar braces as 'intensified' Mocha approaches

Cyclone Mocha made landfall at the Bangladesh-Myanmar border on Sunday, according to Bangladesh's weather office. It is destroying trees and pouring torrential rain to the region threatening hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees.

Mocha struck between Cox's Bazar, where almost a million Rohingya refugees dwell in camps mostly made up of flimsy shelters, and Myanmar's Sittwe. Cyclone Mocha has gusts of up to 195 kilometres (120 miles) per hour.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-voting-begins-will-rule-of-conservative-military-backed-pm-to-maintain-power-592156">Thailand voting begins, will conservative military-backed PM maintain power?</a>

Cyclone speeds are as high as 140 knots, or 259 kph, according to the US Joint Typhoon Warning Centre earlier. This is the equivalent of a category 5 hurricane, according to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

"Our camp houses, which are constructed with bamboo and tarpaulins, can be blown away in soft, light winds," the 28-year-old Mohammad Sayed told AFP from Nayapara refugee camp in Bangladesh.

"The schools, which are designated as cyclone shelters... are not strong shelters that can withstand the winds of a cyclone. We are scared."

Numerous people packed into trucks, automobiles, and tuk-tuks and left Sittwe on Saturday in search of higher ground inland after meteorologists issued a 3.5 m (11 ft) storm surge warning. "We are not OK because we didn't bring food and other things to cook," said 57-year-old Maung Win from Kyauktaw town.

"We can only wait to get food from people's donations."

Also Read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistani-held-in-biggest-drug-bust-in-india-crystal-meth-worth-145-bn-seized-592189">In India's biggest drug bust, crystal meth worth $1.45bn seized from Kerala coast, Pakistani held</a>

According to divisional commissioner Aminur Rahman, the Bangladeshi government relocated approximately 100,000 people from Chittagong and 190,000 from Cox's Bazar to safety on Saturday night. Residents in Yangon, the centre of commerce for Myanmar, reported on Sunday that they too received rain and fast winds.&nbsp;

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The landfall process of Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm "Mocha" has commenced over north-west Myanmar coast.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneMocha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneMocha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeatherForecast?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeatherForecast</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IMD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IMD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewslive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DDNewslive</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/airnewsalerts?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airnewsalerts</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/moesgoi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@moesgoi</a> <a href="https://t.co/uLvAsRCQwF">pic.twitter.com/uLvAsRCQwF</a>
— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept/status/1657651209107542018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Authorities in Myanmar and Bangladesh are getting ready for a emergency response and are on high alert.&nbsp;The cyclone is expected to deliver torrential rain, which might cause landslips.

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According to Azizur Rahman, the head&nbsp;of Bangladesh's meteorological department, Cyclone Mocha is the storm that has struck Bangladesh with the greatest intensity since Cyclone Sidr. In November 2007, Sidr made landfall on Bangladesh's southern coast, killing over 3,000 people and caused billions of dollars' worth of damage.

Myanmar Airways International said that they have suspended all flights bound for Rakhine state until Monday.

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Cyclone Mocha made landfall at the Bangladesh-Myanmar border on Sunday, according to Bangladesh's weather office. It is destroying trees and pouring torrential rain to the region threatening hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees.

Cyclone Mocha made landfall at the Bangladesh-Myanmar border on Sunday, according to Bangladesh's weather office. It is destroying trees and pouring torrential rain to the region threatening hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees. Mocha struck between Cox's Bazar, where almost a million Rohingya refugees dwell in camps mostly made up of flimsy shelters, and Myanmar's Sittwe. Cyclone Mocha has gusts of up to 195 kilometres (120 miles) per hour. Also Read | Thailand voting begins, will conservative military-backed PM maintain power? Cyclone speeds are as high as 140 knots, or 259 kph, according to the US Joint Typhoon Warning Centre earlier. This is the equivalent of a category 5 hurricane, according to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. "Our camp houses, which are constructed with bamboo and tarpaulins, can be blown away in soft, light winds," the 28-year-old Mohammad Sayed told AFP from Nayapara refugee camp in Bangladesh. "The schools, which are designated as cyclone shelters... are not strong shelters that can withstand the winds of a cyclone. We are scared." Numerous people packed into trucks, automobiles, and tuk-tuks and left Sittwe on Saturday in search of higher ground inland after meteorologists issued a 3.5 m (11 ft) storm surge warning. "We are not OK because we didn't bring food and other things to cook," said 57-year-old Maung Win from Kyauktaw town. "We can only wait to get food from people's donations." Also Read| In India's biggest drug bust, crystal meth worth $1.45bn seized from Kerala coast, Pakistani held According to divisional commissioner Aminur Rahman, the Bangladeshi government relocated approximately 100,000 people from Chittagong and 190,000 from Cox's Bazar to safety on Saturday night. Residents in Yangon, the centre of commerce for Myanmar, reported on Sunday that they too received rain and fast winds. The landfall process of Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm "Mocha" has commenced over north-west Myanmar coast.#CycloneMocha #India #WeatherForecast #IMD @DDNewslive @ndmaindia @airnewsalerts @moesgoi pic.twitter.com/uLvAsRCQwF — India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) May 14, 2023 × Authorities in Myanmar and Bangladesh are getting ready for a emergency response and are on high alert. The cyclone is expected to deliver torrential rain, which might cause landslips. Watch | Mother's Day Special: Sarah Todd shares easy cooking tips for busy parents × According to Azizur Rahman, the head of Bangladesh's meteorological department, Cyclone Mocha is the storm that has struck Bangladesh with the greatest intensity since Cyclone Sidr. In November 2007, Sidr made landfall on Bangladesh's southern coast, killing over 3,000 people and caused billions of dollars' worth of damage. Myanmar Airways International said that they have suspended all flights bound for Rakhine state until Monday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Very severe' cyclone Mocha hits Myanmar-Bangladesh border, threatens Rohingya refugees in low-lying regions

Cyclone Mocha intensified into a category five hurricane on Sunday, hours ahead of its predicted landfall in Myanmar and Bangladesh, where hundreds of thousands of people evacuated from the coasts were taking shelter. People have evacuated from low-lying coastal areas in Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Myanmar, Bangladesh in eye of Cyclone Mocha as it touches land

Bangladesh and Myanmar are set to face Cyclone Mocha. Are the Rohingya refugees in for some trouble? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Bangladesh and Myanmar to face cyclone Mocha

Authorities in India have also issued a warning to the fishermen and civilians in nearby areas as the tropical winds are rising. As a dangerous Cyclone Mocha is approaching the coastline of both nations, hundreds of people are fleeing their homes in Myanmar and Bangladesh.

Cyclone Mocha: Refugees, locals in danger at Myanmar and Bangladesh coastlines

Thousands of people fled the west coast of Myanmar and officials in Bangladesh's neighbouring areas raced to evacuate the Rohingyas on Saturday as the region's most powerful cyclone in a decade churned across the Bay of Bengal.

According to India's meteorological office, Cyclone Mocha was packing winds, at a speed of 220 kilometres per hour (136 miles per hour), similar to a category four hurricane.

The cyclone is expected to weaken before it makes landfall between Cox's Bazar and Sittwe, which is on Myanmar's western Rakhine coast on Saturday.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-mocha-to-intensify-severe-rain-expected-in-indias-northeastern-states-check-details-591663">Cyclone Mocha to intensify, severe rain expected in India's northeastern states, check details</a>

More than a million Rohingya refugees have been living in flimsy shelters in Cox's Bazar after they fled from Myanmar.

On Saturday, the residents of Sittwe piled possessions as well as their pets onto trucks, cars, and tuk-tuks and moved for higher ground, as per AFP reporters.

"We have our grandma in our family and we have to take care of her," Khine Min said to AFP while standing beside a truck filled with his relatives on a road in the state capital.

"There is only one man left in Sittwe to take care of our homes,” Min added.

In the town of around 150,000 people, shops and markets were shuttered and many locals sought shelter in monasteries.

Kyaw Tin, aged 40, said that he was not able to evacuate the area as his son was admitted to the local hospital. "I hope this cyclone won't come to our state. But if this happens we can't ignore it," he stated.

"I'm worried that this cyclone will affect our state just like Nargis did," he further stated, while referring to a 2008 storm in which more than 130,000 people were killed in southern Myanmar.

The junta authorities of Myanmar were supervising people's evacuations from villages along the country's Rakhine coast, reported state media on Friday.

Myanmar Airways International said that they have suspended all flights bound for Rakhine state until Monday.

The officials in neighbouring Bangladesh took steps to evacuate Rohingya refugees from "risky areas" to community centres, as hundreds of citizens fled a top resort island.

WATCH | Gravitas: Bangladesh and Myanmar to face cyclone Mocha

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"Cyclone Mocha is the most powerful storm since Cyclone Sidr," Azizur Rahman, the head of Bangladesh's Meteorological Department, said.

In November 2007, Cyclone Sidr had hit the southern coast of Bangladesh, which took the lives of more than 3,000 people and caused damage worth billions of dollars.

The government authorities in Bangladesh have banned the Rohingya from building permanent concrete homes as they fear it may incentivise them to permanently settle in the region and not return to Myanmar.

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Thousands of people fled the west coast of Myanmar and officials in Bangladesh's neighbouring areas raced to evacuate the Rohingyas on Saturday as the region's most powerful cyclone in a decade churned across the Bay of Bengal.

Thousands of people fled the west coast of Myanmar and officials in Bangladesh's neighbouring areas raced to evacuate the Rohingyas on Saturday as the region's most powerful cyclone in a decade churned across the Bay of Bengal. According to India's meteorological office, Cyclone Mocha was packing winds, at a speed of 220 kilometres per hour (136 miles per hour), similar to a category four hurricane. The cyclone is expected to weaken before it makes landfall between Cox's Bazar and Sittwe, which is on Myanmar's western Rakhine coast on Saturday. ALSO READ | Cyclone Mocha to intensify, severe rain expected in India's northeastern states, check details More than a million Rohingya refugees have been living in flimsy shelters in Cox's Bazar after they fled from Myanmar. On Saturday, the residents of Sittwe piled possessions as well as their pets onto trucks, cars, and tuk-tuks and moved for higher ground, as per AFP reporters. "We have our grandma in our family and we have to take care of her," Khine Min said to AFP while standing beside a truck filled with his relatives on a road in the state capital. "There is only one man left in Sittwe to take care of our homes,” Min added. In the town of around 150,000 people, shops and markets were shuttered and many locals sought shelter in monasteries. Kyaw Tin, aged 40, said that he was not able to evacuate the area as his son was admitted to the local hospital. "I hope this cyclone won't come to our state. But if this happens we can't ignore it," he stated. "I'm worried that this cyclone will affect our state just like Nargis did," he further stated, while referring to a 2008 storm in which more than 130,000 people were killed in southern Myanmar. The junta authorities of Myanmar were supervising people's evacuations from villages along the country's Rakhine coast, reported state media on Friday. Myanmar Airways International said that they have suspended all flights bound for Rakhine state until Monday. The officials in neighbouring Bangladesh took steps to evacuate Rohingya refugees from "risky areas" to community centres, as hundreds of citizens fled a top resort island. WATCH | Gravitas: Bangladesh and Myanmar to face cyclone Mocha "Cyclone Mocha is the most powerful storm since Cyclone Sidr," Azizur Rahman, the head of Bangladesh's Meteorological Department, said. In November 2007, Cyclone Sidr had hit the southern coast of Bangladesh, which took the lives of more than 3,000 people and caused damage worth billions of dollars. The government authorities in Bangladesh have banned the Rohingya from building permanent concrete homes as they fear it may incentivise them to permanently settle in the region and not return to Myanmar. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thousands evacuated as Cyclone Mocha approaches Myanmar, Bangladesh

Southeast Asian nations said Wednesday they are "deeply concerned" about the violence ravaging Myanmar, and condemned a recent attack on a convoy of diplomats delivering humanitarian aid in the country.

ASEAN leaders say 'deeply concerned' about Myanmar violence

A convoy carrying diplomats from the ASEAN countries was attacked by an unidentified group of assailants in Myanmar’s southern Shan State on Sunday, a military official said on Monday, reports AFP news agency.

The convoy was travelling to eastern Taunggyi town when it came under the attack, a foreign diplomat based in Yangon told AFP on condition of anonymity.

A senior military official also confirmed the attack to AFP, adding that the convoy was fired upon.

"A convoy with some diplomats was attacked yesterday morning," the diplomat was quoted as saying.

The convoy of vehicles was carrying diplomats from the embassies of Indonesia and Singapore and officials overlooking humanitarian relief from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) regional bloc.

According to local reports, no casualties were reported.

<h2>Gravitas: Is China building a spy base in Myanmar's Great Coco Island?</h2>

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The diplomats and officials were on their way to "hand over humanitarian aid," Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on Monday.

"Regretfully on their way, there was a shootout," he said, without giving any further details.

Jokowi called the incident a "shootout" without giving further details, but said it would not deter efforts by Indonesia and ASEAN to push for peace in Myanmar.

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"Stop using force, stop violence because it's the people who will be victims. This condition will not make anybody win," he said, adding that Indonesia encourages all stakeholders to have a dialogue and find solutions.

For months, Indonesia has been silently engaging with the Myanmar junta, shadow government, and armed ethnic groups to try and kick-start a peace process, its foreign minister said last week.

Sunday’s attack in Southern Shan state has alarmed military officials as it had relatively seen less violence than other parts ever since the military took over Myanmar more than two years ago.&nbsp;

In March, around 30 people sheltering at a monastery in the same state were killed, with the junta and anti-coup fighters trading accusations over the massacre.

This week, the Southeast Asian leaders will meet in Indonesia for a summit expected to be dominated by the Myanmar crisis.

ASEAN, which has long been dubbed as a toothless talking shop for its inaction in resolving the bloody crisis, has been leading diplomatic attempts.

However, its efforts have stalled as the junta ignores international criticism and refuses to engage with its opponents, which include ousted lawmakers, anti-coup "People's Defence Forces" and ethnic minority&nbsp;armed&nbsp;groups.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A convoy carrying diplomats from the ASEAN countries was attacked by an unidentified group of assailants in Myanmar’s southern Shan State on Sunday, a military official said on Monday, reports AFP news agency.

A convoy carrying diplomats from the ASEAN countries was attacked by an unidentified group of assailants in Myanmar’s southern Shan State on Sunday, a military official said on Monday, reports AFP news agency. The convoy was travelling to eastern Taunggyi town when it came under the attack, a foreign diplomat based in Yangon told AFP on condition of anonymity. A senior military official also confirmed the attack to AFP, adding that the convoy was fired upon. "A convoy with some diplomats was attacked yesterday morning," the diplomat was quoted as saying. The convoy of vehicles was carrying diplomats from the embassies of Indonesia and Singapore and officials overlooking humanitarian relief from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) regional bloc. According to local reports, no casualties were reported. Gravitas: Is China building a spy base in Myanmar's Great Coco Island? The diplomats and officials were on their way to "hand over humanitarian aid," Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on Monday. "Regretfully on their way, there was a shootout," he said, without giving any further details. Jokowi called the incident a "shootout" without giving further details, but said it would not deter efforts by Indonesia and ASEAN to push for peace in Myanmar. Also read | Woman from India's Hyderabad killed in Texas mall shooting: Reports "Stop using force, stop violence because it's the people who will be victims. This condition will not make anybody win," he said, adding that Indonesia encourages all stakeholders to have a dialogue and find solutions. For months, Indonesia has been silently engaging with the Myanmar junta, shadow government, and armed ethnic groups to try and kick-start a peace process, its foreign minister said last week. Sunday’s attack in Southern Shan state has alarmed military officials as it had relatively seen less violence than other parts ever since the military took over Myanmar more than two years ago. In March, around 30 people sheltering at a monastery in the same state were killed, with the junta and anti-coup fighters trading accusations over the massacre. This week, the Southeast Asian leaders will meet in Indonesia for a summit expected to be dominated by the Myanmar crisis. ASEAN, which has long been dubbed as a toothless talking shop for its inaction in resolving the bloody crisis, has been leading diplomatic attempts. However, its efforts have stalled as the junta ignores international criticism and refuses to engage with its opponents, which include ousted lawmakers, anti-coup "People's Defence Forces" and ethnic minority armed groups. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Convoy carrying ASEAN diplomats, officials 'attacked' by armed group in Myanmar

A statement released by Myanmar's junta on Wednesday (May 3) revealed that it had pardoned 2,153 prisoners. The statement mentioned that they were jailed under a law that criminalises encouraging dissent against the military and carries a maximum three-year jail term. Junta has used the same law to crack down on dissent since it seized power in February 2021.

The junta in a statement noted that the military pardoned "2,153 prisoners serving sentences under Penal Code 505 (a) to mark Kasone Full Moon Day".&nbsp;

The statement said that the military ordered the pardons "for the peaceful mind of the people and on humanitarian grounds" and further added that those who re-offend will have to serve the remainder of their sentence. There will be an additional penalty.&nbsp;

The Myanmar junta seized power in the country on February 1, 2021, through a coup. India, in view of the cross-border issues, has retained ties with the junta-led South Asian nation. However, many countries have condemned the junta and called for a return to democracy.&nbsp;

After seizing power and ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's government, more than 21,000 people have been arrested. The crisis has plunged the country into turmoil, according to a local monitoring group. The United Nations stated that at least 170 journalists have been arrested.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi is still in jail since she was detained in the early hours of the coup. Last year in December, the junta wrapped up a series of trials and jailed her for a total of 33 years.&nbsp;

Apart from the arrest, the monitoring group claimed that more than 3,400 people have been killed in the military's crackdown on dissent since the coup.&nbsp;

The junta has been accused of committing human rights abuses, including violence against peaceful protesters, arbitrary detentions, and the use of lethal force against civilians.&nbsp;

<h2>Chinese minister visits Myanmar</h2>

The latest decision about pardoning the prisoners comes as the Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang is visiting Myanmar for talks with the internationally isolated generals and met junta chief Min Aung Hlaing. Qin became the highest-profile Chinese official to meet the top general since the coup.&nbsp;

According to the Chinese foreign ministry, Qin said, "China advocates that the international community should respect Myanmar's sovereignty and play a constructive role in helping it achieve peace and reconciliation." Recently, several Beijing-backed infrastructure projects are slated to run through northern Myanmar and link China's landlocked Yunnan province with the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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A statement released by Myanmar's junta on Wednesday (May 3) revealed that it had pardoned 2,153 prisoners. The statement mentioned that they were jailed under a law that criminalises encouraging dissent against the military and carries a maximum three-year jail term.

A statement released by Myanmar's junta on Wednesday (May 3) revealed that it had pardoned 2,153 prisoners. The statement mentioned that they were jailed under a law that criminalises encouraging dissent against the military and carries a maximum three-year jail term. Junta has used the same law to crack down on dissent since it seized power in February 2021. The junta in a statement noted that the military pardoned "2,153 prisoners serving sentences under Penal Code 505 (a) to mark Kasone Full Moon Day". The statement said that the military ordered the pardons "for the peaceful mind of the people and on humanitarian grounds" and further added that those who re-offend will have to serve the remainder of their sentence. There will be an additional penalty. The Myanmar junta seized power in the country on February 1, 2021, through a coup. India, in view of the cross-border issues, has retained ties with the junta-led South Asian nation. However, many countries have condemned the junta and called for a return to democracy. After seizing power and ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's government, more than 21,000 people have been arrested. The crisis has plunged the country into turmoil, according to a local monitoring group. The United Nations stated that at least 170 journalists have been arrested. Suu Kyi is still in jail since she was detained in the early hours of the coup. Last year in December, the junta wrapped up a series of trials and jailed her for a total of 33 years. Apart from the arrest, the monitoring group claimed that more than 3,400 people have been killed in the military's crackdown on dissent since the coup. The junta has been accused of committing human rights abuses, including violence against peaceful protesters, arbitrary detentions, and the use of lethal force against civilians. Chinese minister visits Myanmar The latest decision about pardoning the prisoners comes as the Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang is visiting Myanmar for talks with the internationally isolated generals and met junta chief Min Aung Hlaing. Qin became the highest-profile Chinese official to meet the top general since the coup. According to the Chinese foreign ministry, Qin said, "China advocates that the international community should respect Myanmar's sovereignty and play a constructive role in helping it achieve peace and reconciliation." Recently, several Beijing-backed infrastructure projects are slated to run through northern Myanmar and link China's landlocked Yunnan province with the Indian Ocean. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar junta pardons 2,153 prisoners jailed for dissent against military

China's foreign minister met with Myanmar's junta leader in Naypyidaw to discuss the crisis in the Southeast Asian country and strengthening bilateral ties, Myanmar state television MRTV announced on Tuesday.

Chinese Foreign Minister hails Myanmar 'friendship' on visit

Chinese foreign minister hails Myanmar's 'friendship' on visit

China's Foreign Minister meets Junta Leader in Myanmar

Satellite images taken in January show new construction activity on and around Myanmar's Coco Islands in the northeastern Bay of Bengal, which can be a matter of concern for India. The satellite images have been taken by Maxar Technologies.&nbsp; 
 
Myanmar's Coco Islands is a small group of islands in the northeastern Bay of Bengal and has been the centre of geopolitical tensions in the region.&nbsp;The islands have reportedly been witnessing military modernisation. 
 
Political analysts and experts have claimed that China is behind the military modernisation on the islands.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chatham House, an independent policy institute headquartered in the UK, published a detailed report about the images and their geopolitical relevance.&nbsp;

The images by the satellite imagery firm reportedly showed two new hangars, a new causeway and what appears to be an accommodation bloc.&nbsp;As per the report, the freshly-built military infrastructures are visible in proximity to a freshly lengthened 2,300-metre runway and radar station.&nbsp;

<img alt="Coco Islands" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dc50dc95-442b-4512-87b5-0d3c8776a4d3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Coco%20Islands.png" />

(Image:&nbsp;The runway:&nbsp;Initially a length of 1,300m, the runway on Great Coco Island has been extended over the last decade to reach its current reported length of 2,300m.)

<img alt="Coco Islands" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c146a66d-03e2-475e-9640-b0b4aa1a554e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Great%20Coco%20%282%29.png" />

(Image: This satellite image shows that building work for two aircraft hangars next to the runway is being carried out. The width of the hangar appears to be close to 40 metres, limiting the list of aircraft it may eventually accommodate but opening the possibility for high-performance aircraft be stationed there. The report also mentioned that there is clear "evidence" of land-clearing efforts, visible as of late March on the southern tip of Great Coco. It indicates construction work to come in future.)&nbsp;

The images suggest&nbsp;that Myanmar may soon be intending to conduct maritime surveillance operations from Great Coco Islands.&nbsp;

Previously also, Myanmar faced accusations that it allowed a heavy presence of China's PLA (People’s Liberation Army) on the Coco Islands.

The most common allegation is that since the early 1990s, Naypyidaw has allowed a Chinese signals intelligence facility on the archipelago.&nbsp;

<img alt="Coco Islands" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2aa62bad-a3af-4562-a3de-b5425cfabff5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/coco.png" />

(Image: The causeway at the southern end of Great Coco Island can be seen under construction, connecting the tip of the main island to a neighbouring island.)

Recent trends show growing ties between China and the Southeast Asian nation as the past two years of civil war in Myanmar have left it isolated internationally.&nbsp;

Beijing has staked a large investment in the country via the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor to access Indian Ocean sea lanes.&nbsp;Chatham House reported that the lanes act&nbsp;as a way to bypass the Strait of Malacca, which has acted as a critical sea lane for shipping destined for China's east coast, and direct energy imports instead over land into China's Yunnan province.&nbsp;

The latest militarisation could pose a significant security challenge to India and the South Asian nation seeks to counter China's growing influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region.&nbsp;

Such military construction will also impact India's strategic interests in the region as it poses a significant security challenge to India and its navy.&nbsp;

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands provide India's Eastern Fleet strategic depth in the Bay of Bengal and command approaches to the Strait of Malacca.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Satellite images taken in January show new construction activity on and around Myanmar's Coco Islands in the northeastern Bay of Bengal, which can be a matter of concern for India.

Satellite images taken in January show new construction activity on and around Myanmar's Coco Islands in the northeastern Bay of Bengal, which can be a matter of concern for India. The satellite images have been taken by Maxar Technologies. Myanmar's Coco Islands is a small group of islands in the northeastern Bay of Bengal and has been the centre of geopolitical tensions in the region. The islands have reportedly been witnessing military modernisation. Political analysts and experts have claimed that China is behind the military modernisation on the islands. Chatham House, an independent policy institute headquartered in the UK, published a detailed report about the images and their geopolitical relevance. The images by the satellite imagery firm reportedly showed two new hangars, a new causeway and what appears to be an accommodation bloc. As per the report, the freshly-built military infrastructures are visible in proximity to a freshly lengthened 2,300-metre runway and radar station. (Image: The runway: Initially a length of 1,300m, the runway on Great Coco Island has been extended over the last decade to reach its current reported length of 2,300m.) (Image: This satellite image shows that building work for two aircraft hangars next to the runway is being carried out. The width of the hangar appears to be close to 40 metres, limiting the list of aircraft it may eventually accommodate but opening the possibility for high-performance aircraft be stationed there. The report also mentioned that there is clear "evidence" of land-clearing efforts, visible as of late March on the southern tip of Great Coco. It indicates construction work to come in future.) The images suggest that Myanmar may soon be intending to conduct maritime surveillance operations from Great Coco Islands. Previously also, Myanmar faced accusations that it allowed a heavy presence of China's PLA (People’s Liberation Army) on the Coco Islands. The most common allegation is that since the early 1990s, Naypyidaw has allowed a Chinese signals intelligence facility on the archipelago. (Image: The causeway at the southern end of Great Coco Island can be seen under construction, connecting the tip of the main island to a neighbouring island.) Recent trends show growing ties between China and the Southeast Asian nation as the past two years of civil war in Myanmar have left it isolated internationally. Beijing has staked a large investment in the country via the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor to access Indian Ocean sea lanes. Chatham House reported that the lanes act as a way to bypass the Strait of Malacca, which has acted as a critical sea lane for shipping destined for China's east coast, and direct energy imports instead over land into China's Yunnan province. The latest militarisation could pose a significant security challenge to India and the South Asian nation seeks to counter China's growing influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region. Such military construction will also impact India's strategic interests in the region as it poses a significant security challenge to India and its navy. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands provide India's Eastern Fleet strategic depth in the Bay of Bengal and command approaches to the Strait of Malacca. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Satellite pics show military build-up on Myanmar island near India. Is it Chinese ‘spy’ base?

Shwe Metta, or "Golden Love" in Burmese -- has around a dozen members and rescued around 200 snakes last year from around Yangon. Social media videos of the pair pulling snakes out of sink plugholes and extricating them from roof eaves have earned them the moniker "prince and princess of snakes" from local media. Watch this to know more.

Pythons on your porch? Call Myanmar's 'Snake Princess'

More than 100 people were killed in a military airstrike by Myanmar's Junta on the 11th of April. This is the deadliest attack on civilians by Myanmar's armed forces. Since the military Junta overthrew the democratically elected government in February 2021. Human rights activists see these systematic attacks as part of a pattern to silence the opposition. Schools, health clinics, even entire villages have been bombed to smithereens to quell the resistance. With strict media censorship, it is difficult to ascertain the scale of violence that is unfolding in the country.

Deadliest attack on civilians by military junta | World At War

IN PICS | Myanmar junta releases over 3,000 prisoners in Buddhist New Year amnesty

Myanmar junta confirmed and justified the airstrike carried out on a village, which killed at least 100 people, on Wednesday, becoming one of the deadliest attacks by the military after seizing power in a coup two years ago.&nbsp;

CNN in its report highlighted the horrific story after the deadly strikes as it mentioned that the relatives were still recovering the charred bodies and limbs of victims.&nbsp;

The US-based media outlet reported that it was a horrific scene at the site of the military airstrike. The witness said that he hid in a tunnel during the attack. While describing the scene, he said that children were dying, women were screaming, and bodies were piled up on the ground.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/unintended-consequence-military-airstrikes-in-myanmar-signal-chinese-claws-sharpened-by-ukraine-war-582003">Unintended consequence: Military airstrikes in Myanmar signal Chinese claws sharpened by Ukraine war</a>&nbsp;

Another witness, a villager involved in rescue and recovery efforts at Pazi Gyi village, said that the body parts had been strewn across the site of the attack, AFP reported. The villager asked not to be named for safety concerns.&nbsp;

The villager told AFP it was difficult to identify the dead.&nbsp;"We can not identify anymore who is who among the dead because they are all pieces," he said.&nbsp;

WATCH | At least&nbsp;100 feared killed by airstrike in Myanmar : Reports&nbsp;

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Media reports claimed that the strikes were carried out in the remote Kanbalu township in the central Sagaing region. However, the official death toll still remains unclear.&nbsp;

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) strongly condemned air strikes. The group has faced criticism for not doing enough to solve the deepening Myanmar crisis.&nbsp;

The chair of Indonesia said in a statement: "All forms of violence must end immediately, particularly the use of force against civilians. This would be the only way to create a conducive environment for an inclusive national dialogue to find a sustainable peaceful solution in Myanmar."&nbsp;

France has also condemned the incident calling it an "abominable" airstrike on a village by the Myanmar air force. French foreign ministry said in a statement that the strike demonstrated "the strategy of indiscriminate violence the Myanmar junta has inflicted on Myanmar's people for more than two years". The ministry further added that Paris "continues to stand resolutely at the side of the people of Myanmar".&nbsp;

According to a local monitoring group, the Myanmar military's crackdown on dissent and armed groups opposed to their rule has left more than 3,200 people dead. The crackdown began after a coup that toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in 2021.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Myanmar junta confirmed and justified the airstrike carried out on a village, which killed at least 100 people, on Wednesday, becoming one of the deadliest attacks by the military after seizing power in a coup two years ago.

Myanmar junta confirmed and justified the airstrike carried out on a village, which killed at least 100 people, on Wednesday, becoming one of the deadliest attacks by the military after seizing power in a coup two years ago. CNN in its report highlighted the horrific story after the deadly strikes as it mentioned that the relatives were still recovering the charred bodies and limbs of victims. The US-based media outlet reported that it was a horrific scene at the site of the military airstrike. The witness said that he hid in a tunnel during the attack. While describing the scene, he said that children were dying, women were screaming, and bodies were piled up on the ground. ALSO READ | Unintended consequence: Military airstrikes in Myanmar signal Chinese claws sharpened by Ukraine war Another witness, a villager involved in rescue and recovery efforts at Pazi Gyi village, said that the body parts had been strewn across the site of the attack, AFP reported. The villager asked not to be named for safety concerns. The villager told AFP it was difficult to identify the dead. "We can not identify anymore who is who among the dead because they are all pieces," he said. WATCH | At least 100 feared killed by airstrike in Myanmar : Reports × Media reports claimed that the strikes were carried out in the remote Kanbalu township in the central Sagaing region. However, the official death toll still remains unclear. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) strongly condemned air strikes. The group has faced criticism for not doing enough to solve the deepening Myanmar crisis. The chair of Indonesia said in a statement: "All forms of violence must end immediately, particularly the use of force against civilians. This would be the only way to create a conducive environment for an inclusive national dialogue to find a sustainable peaceful solution in Myanmar." France has also condemned the incident calling it an "abominable" airstrike on a village by the Myanmar air force. French foreign ministry said in a statement that the strike demonstrated "the strategy of indiscriminate violence the Myanmar junta has inflicted on Myanmar's people for more than two years". The ministry further added that Paris "continues to stand resolutely at the side of the people of Myanmar". According to a local monitoring group, the Myanmar military's crackdown on dissent and armed groups opposed to their rule has left more than 3,200 people dead. The crackdown began after a coup that toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in 2021. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar junta's airstrikes kill at least 100, leave town with screaming people and body parts everywhere

When Europe sneezes, does Asia catch a cold? This is the big question on my mind after air raids in Myanmar by the ruling military junta against its own opposition this week, marking yet another step in former Burma's backward march to authoritarian rule from a fledgling democracy.&nbsp;

The United Nations, the United States, and the Association of South-East Nations (ASEAN) have all condemned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-targets-school-children-performing-dances-in-saigaing-up-to-100-feared-dead-581524">airstrikes</a>&nbsp;which are estimated to have killed an estimated 100 people in the Sagaing region where opponents of the military government had gathered for a ceremony. That the region is a stronghold of deposed opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s suspended National League for Democracy should indicate where things are going. In February 2021, the ruling generals simply pushed back the Nobel peace prize winner's elected party out of government in a coup even as the world was struggling to crawl out of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

In an interlinked world old equations are giving way to new uncertainties. President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine has decidedly tilted the balance in such a way that Europe and the United States would obviously be worried more about what happens in Kyiv and Moscow, than in Naypyidaw. That should in turn worry supporters of democracy, East of the Suez. Or, in geopolitical terms, the West in general because behind Myanmar's newfound authoritarianism, one can see a huge Chinese indifference, if not influence.&nbsp;

It is usual in politics for some to be emboldened when they see less of a threat that would restrain them from taking some steps. The Ukraine war, coming in the wake of the painful Brexit that saw the UK exit the European Union and an economic crisis in Europe accentuated by the war, has created conditions for the mandarins in Beijing to move forward in increasing their influence across the planet, but most certainly in Asia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-us-dollar-is-shaky-but-let-us-not-dream-of-an-alt-currency-in-a-hurry-579360">World disorder: Can the Global South define&nbsp;itself?</a>&nbsp;

I would certainly link recent peace-making efforts taken by China to make Saudi Arabia and Iran come closer as one step, and the air raids in Myanmar to the super-power vacuum of sorts created in Asia by the Ukraine war. Naypidaw (or Nay Pyi Taw) literally means the Abode of Kings -- and that might be a sign of an authoritarian royalty taking away powers from pro-democracy civilians and common citizens.&nbsp;

There was a time in the 1960s when Chairman Mao Ze Dong's communist party wanted his Cultural Revolution to extend to ethnic Chinese people outside of China and that caused anti-China riots in then Burma. But things have changed so much that it is possible to see Myanmar increasingly as an autocratic ally of China than a post-colonial nation edging towards a modern democracy.&nbsp;

Chinese investments in Myanmar were under strain during NLD's democratic rule, and there have been threats issued by opposition groups to attack Beijing's assets if China supports military rulers. Beijing has moved nonchalantly since the coup to guard its interests, which include investments backed by a pile of debt. With Myanmar rich in natural resources and offering an opening to the Indian Ocean, the last thing on Beijing's mind would be a democratically elected government in the country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-us-dollar-is-shaky-but-let-us-not-dream-of-an-alt-currency-in-a-hurry-579360">The US dollar is shaky, but let us not dream of an alt-currency in a hurry</a>&nbsp;

One diplomat predicted in an article discussing the issue last year that China was going back to a business-as-usual mode in Myanmar and increasing support for the military junta. After NLD won power in 2016, it tried to regulate Chinese companies by forcing them to engage with local communities or change their methods. Clearly, doing business with military rulers is a lot easier for China -- and it has been doing so for decades anyway. Of late, Chinese-controlled companies are building a $2.5 billion power plant year Yangon and an economic corridor that includes a $7-billion deep-sea port at Kyaukphyu.&nbsp;

India shares borders with both Myanmar and China. The junta's airstrikes come amid Beijing's efforts to describe some places in India's north-eastern Arunachal Pradesh state as part of Tibet, which is another sign of China stretching its dragon paws beyond accepted territory. India is naturally more than concerned. It has to.

All in all, Asia is aflutter because Ukraine sneezed. This is something for the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue between India, Australia, the US and Japan) to take note. The AUKUS grouping (Australia, UK and the US) is a close cousin that also needs to get engaged on this.&nbsp;

The bottom line is simple. If pluralist democracy matters in true principle and global security is linked to that, it is important to view the entire planet as one entity. We need durable peace in Ukraine to ensure stability in Asia. Everything else flows from there. Someone has to strike a delicate balance between economics and geopolitics. Diplomatic credibility matters more than ever before.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;

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When Europe sneezes, does Asia catch a cold? This is the big question on my mind after air raids in Myanmar by the ruling military junta against its own opposition this week, marking yet another step in former Burma's backward march to authoritarian rule from a fledgling democracy.

When Europe sneezes, does Asia catch a cold? This is the big question on my mind after air raids in Myanmar by the ruling military junta against its own opposition this week, marking yet another step in former Burma's backward march to authoritarian rule from a fledgling democracy. The United Nations, the United States, and the Association of South-East Nations (ASEAN) have all condemned the airstrikes which are estimated to have killed an estimated 100 people in the Sagaing region where opponents of the military government had gathered for a ceremony. That the region is a stronghold of deposed opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s suspended National League for Democracy should indicate where things are going. In February 2021, the ruling generals simply pushed back the Nobel peace prize winner's elected party out of government in a coup even as the world was struggling to crawl out of the COVID-19 pandemic. In an interlinked world old equations are giving way to new uncertainties. President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine has decidedly tilted the balance in such a way that Europe and the United States would obviously be worried more about what happens in Kyiv and Moscow, than in Naypyidaw. That should in turn worry supporters of democracy, East of the Suez. Or, in geopolitical terms, the West in general because behind Myanmar's newfound authoritarianism, one can see a huge Chinese indifference, if not influence. It is usual in politics for some to be emboldened when they see less of a threat that would restrain them from taking some steps. The Ukraine war, coming in the wake of the painful Brexit that saw the UK exit the European Union and an economic crisis in Europe accentuated by the war, has created conditions for the mandarins in Beijing to move forward in increasing their influence across the planet, but most certainly in Asia. ALSO READ | World disorder: Can the Global South define itself? I would certainly link recent peace-making efforts taken by China to make Saudi Arabia and Iran come closer as one step, and the air raids in Myanmar to the super-power vacuum of sorts created in Asia by the Ukraine war. Naypidaw (or Nay Pyi Taw) literally means the Abode of Kings -- and that might be a sign of an authoritarian royalty taking away powers from pro-democracy civilians and common citizens. There was a time in the 1960s when Chairman Mao Ze Dong's communist party wanted his Cultural Revolution to extend to ethnic Chinese people outside of China and that caused anti-China riots in then Burma. But things have changed so much that it is possible to see Myanmar increasingly as an autocratic ally of China than a post-colonial nation edging towards a modern democracy. Chinese investments in Myanmar were under strain during NLD's democratic rule, and there have been threats issued by opposition groups to attack Beijing's assets if China supports military rulers. Beijing has moved nonchalantly since the coup to guard its interests, which include investments backed by a pile of debt. With Myanmar rich in natural resources and offering an opening to the Indian Ocean, the last thing on Beijing's mind would be a democratically elected government in the country. ALSO READ | The US dollar is shaky, but let us not dream of an alt-currency in a hurry One diplomat predicted in an article discussing the issue last year that China was going back to a business-as-usual mode in Myanmar and increasing support for the military junta. After NLD won power in 2016, it tried to regulate Chinese companies by forcing them to engage with local communities or change their methods. Clearly, doing business with military rulers is a lot easier for China -- and it has been doing so for decades anyway. Of late, Chinese-controlled companies are building a $2.5 billion power plant year Yangon and an economic corridor that includes a $7-billion deep-sea port at Kyaukphyu. India shares borders with both Myanmar and China. The junta's airstrikes come amid Beijing's efforts to describe some places in India's north-eastern Arunachal Pradesh state as part of Tibet, which is another sign of China stretching its dragon paws beyond accepted territory. India is naturally more than concerned. It has to. All in all, Asia is aflutter because Ukraine sneezed. This is something for the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue between India, Australia, the US and Japan) to take note. The AUKUS grouping (Australia, UK and the US) is a close cousin that also needs to get engaged on this. The bottom line is simple. If pluralist democracy matters in true principle and global security is linked to that, it is important to view the entire planet as one entity. We need durable peace in Ukraine to ensure stability in Asia. Everything else flows from there. Someone has to strike a delicate balance between economics and geopolitics. Diplomatic credibility matters more than ever before. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Unintended consequence: Military airstrikes in Myanmar signal Chinese claws sharpened by Ukraine war

Dozens of people in central Myanmar were killed in air strikes on Tuesday. Myanmar's ruling junta confirmed that it carried out an airstrike on a village. UN & western powers condemned the attacks & demanded accountability. The south-east Asian country has been in chaos & its economy in tatters since the military seized power in 2021 coup. Attacks by ethnic minority armies & resistance fighters have challenged the rule of the military. The armed forces have been responding with air strikes & heavy weapons, including in civilian areas. At least 1.2 million people have been displaced by post-coup fighting, according to UN.

Myanmar in chaos, economy in tatters | Military rule vs ethnic minority armies & resistance fighters

Several&nbsp;dozen of people, including children, were killed in central Myanmar following the military's airstrikes on Tuesday. The number of dead cited by a local pro-democracy group and media goes as high as 100. CNN pegged the death toll at 133.

Myanmar's military has reportedly confirmed the airstrikes without commenting on the number of people killed in its offensive against its own people.&nbsp;

“Many people including children were killed and the casualties may exceed more than 50 people,” U Nay Zin Latt, a former legislator for the region, told the Irrawaddy news website.

The airstrikes took place in the Sagaing region, a stronghold of deposed opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s now-suspended National League for Democracy.

The people who died in Tuesday’s airstrikes were reportedly attending a ceremony in a village held by opponents of the army rule. The airstrikes targeted a community hall, resulting in scores of fatalities.

The United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk&nbsp;said he was “horrified" at the reported air strikes.

"It appears school children performing dances, as well as other civilians, attending an opening ceremony at the hall in Pazigyi village, Kanbalu Township, were among the victims," Turk said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-from-myanmar-flee-to-thailand-amid-fighting-between-military-rebels-580084">Thousands from Myanmar flee to Thailand amid fighting between military, rebels</a>

Describing how "a helicopter gunship then reportedly fired on those fleeing the hall", he pointed to reports of the attack and said that he was horrified at it.

Undated visuals attributed to be from the Sagaing region show graphic images of bodies scattered among the ruins of homes. WION cannot independently verify the veracity of these videos.&nbsp;

The UN Human Rights chief accused Myanmar’s military of disregarding "clear legal obligations…to protect civilians in the conduct of hostilities" and showing "blatant disregard for the related rules of international law".

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Myanmar: Junta extends State of Emergency by six months

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“I also call on all parties to take all feasible precautions to protect the civilian population that is under their control from the effects of attacks, including by avoiding locating military objectives within or near densely populated areas," he said.

Myanmar’s military took over Naypyidaw’s power corridors in a coup two years ago. The country has been in&nbsp;chaos ever since.&nbsp;The military is increasingly using air strikes to counter an&nbsp;armed struggle against its rule.&nbsp;More than 3,000 civilians are estimated to have been killed since then by security forces.

Sagaing region has reportedly put up a fierce resistance to the military’s rule. Intense fighting has been raging for months in the region with sporadic instances of human rights violations.

Turk reiterated that "there are reasonable grounds to believe that the military and its affiliated militias are responsible for an extremely broad range of human rights violations and abuses since February 1, 2021".

Some of those violations, he warned, “may constitute crimes against humanity and war crimes."

"I firmly believe the international justice processes now underway will one day hold the military leadership accountable for such crimes," he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Several dozen of people, including children, were killed in central Myanmar following the military's airstrikes on Tuesday. The number of dead cited by a local pro-democracy group and media goes as high as 100.

Several dozen of people, including children, were killed in central Myanmar following the military's airstrikes on Tuesday. The number of dead cited by a local pro-democracy group and media goes as high as 100. CNN pegged the death toll at 133. Myanmar's military has reportedly confirmed the airstrikes without commenting on the number of people killed in its offensive against its own people. “Many people including children were killed and the casualties may exceed more than 50 people,” U Nay Zin Latt, a former legislator for the region, told the Irrawaddy news website. The airstrikes took place in the Sagaing region, a stronghold of deposed opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s now-suspended National League for Democracy. The people who died in Tuesday’s airstrikes were reportedly attending a ceremony in a village held by opponents of the army rule. The airstrikes targeted a community hall, resulting in scores of fatalities. The United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk said he was “horrified" at the reported air strikes. "It appears school children performing dances, as well as other civilians, attending an opening ceremony at the hall in Pazigyi village, Kanbalu Township, were among the victims," Turk said. ALSO READ | Thousands from Myanmar flee to Thailand amid fighting between military, rebels Describing how "a helicopter gunship then reportedly fired on those fleeing the hall", he pointed to reports of the attack and said that he was horrified at it. Undated visuals attributed to be from the Sagaing region show graphic images of bodies scattered among the ruins of homes. WION cannot independently verify the veracity of these videos. The UN Human Rights chief accused Myanmar’s military of disregarding "clear legal obligations…to protect civilians in the conduct of hostilities" and showing "blatant disregard for the related rules of international law". ALSO WATCH | Myanmar: Junta extends State of Emergency by six months × “I also call on all parties to take all feasible precautions to protect the civilian population that is under their control from the effects of attacks, including by avoiding locating military objectives within or near densely populated areas," he said. Myanmar’s military took over Naypyidaw’s power corridors in a coup two years ago. The country has been in chaos ever since. The military is increasingly using air strikes to counter an armed struggle against its rule. More than 3,000 civilians are estimated to have been killed since then by security forces. Sagaing region has reportedly put up a fierce resistance to the military’s rule. Intense fighting has been raging for months in the region with sporadic instances of human rights violations. Turk reiterated that "there are reasonable grounds to believe that the military and its affiliated militias are responsible for an extremely broad range of human rights violations and abuses since February 1, 2021". Some of those violations, he warned, “may constitute crimes against humanity and war crimes." "I firmly believe the international justice processes now underway will one day hold the military leadership accountable for such crimes," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar junta airstrike kills over 100 in Sagaing region, including children

The Indian government recently confronted Myanmar over intelligence reports that China is constructing a surveillance military base in its Great Coco Islands, an archipelago around 55 km away from India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, reported Bloomberg.

Since the 1990s, several intelligence reports have been circulating about China building an intelligence facility on the island in the Bay of Bengal. However, the matter came to the spotlight recently after London-based policy research group Chatham House released a report last week claiming that the junta government was militarising the island, with the sole purpose of conducting maritime surveillance operations in the area.

Following the report, Maxar Technologies—a US-based space tech firm—released satellite images in January 2023, purportedly showing renewed levels of construction activities on the island.

The Indian officials shared these satellite pictures with their Myanmar counterparts during a meeting that appeared to show Chinese workers helping with the construction of a listening post on Coco Islands. In these pictures, the workers were also seen extending an airstrip, the Bloomberg report states citing New Delhi officials aware of the development.

The officials further revealed that Myanmar officials rejected the allegations made by India about Chinese involvement.

Reacting to the reports, a spokesman for Myanmar’s ruling State Administration Council, Major General Zaw Min Tun, refuted the allegations, calling it “absurd”.

<h2>Decoding China's Arunachal provocation</h2>

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He also denied that the issue was never discussed with the Indian officials, adding that Myanmar would never allow access to foreign troops.

“Myanmar and India always have discussions at many levels, but there was no specific discussion on this issue,” he was quoted as saying.

“The Indian government already knows perfectly well that only Myanmar security forces are based there, and they are doing defence activities for their own country.”

However, Indian officials told Bloomberg that they intend to persist with Myanmar as they believe that over the years, the military government has grown economically dependent on Beijing’s funds as they are grappling with the US and EU sanctions announced after 2021 coup.

India has a military facility in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which is less than 60 kilometres (37.2 miles) away from the Coco Islands. The nation is ramping up its capacity in that island chain, the officials said, without giving more information.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The Indian government recently confronted Myanmar over intelligence reports that China is constructing a surveillance military base in its Great Coco Islands, an archipelago around 55 km away from India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, reported Bloomberg.

The Indian government recently confronted Myanmar over intelligence reports that China is constructing a surveillance military base in its Great Coco Islands, an archipelago around 55 km away from India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, reported Bloomberg. Since the 1990s, several intelligence reports have been circulating about China building an intelligence facility on the island in the Bay of Bengal. However, the matter came to the spotlight recently after London-based policy research group Chatham House released a report last week claiming that the junta government was militarising the island, with the sole purpose of conducting maritime surveillance operations in the area. Following the report, Maxar Technologies—a US-based space tech firm—released satellite images in January 2023, purportedly showing renewed levels of construction activities on the island. The Indian officials shared these satellite pictures with their Myanmar counterparts during a meeting that appeared to show Chinese workers helping with the construction of a listening post on Coco Islands. In these pictures, the workers were also seen extending an airstrip, the Bloomberg report states citing New Delhi officials aware of the development. The officials further revealed that Myanmar officials rejected the allegations made by India about Chinese involvement. Reacting to the reports, a spokesman for Myanmar’s ruling State Administration Council, Major General Zaw Min Tun, refuted the allegations, calling it “absurd”. Decoding China's Arunachal provocation He also denied that the issue was never discussed with the Indian officials, adding that Myanmar would never allow access to foreign troops. “Myanmar and India always have discussions at many levels, but there was no specific discussion on this issue,” he was quoted as saying. “The Indian government already knows perfectly well that only Myanmar security forces are based there, and they are doing defence activities for their own country.” However, Indian officials told Bloomberg that they intend to persist with Myanmar as they believe that over the years, the military government has grown economically dependent on Beijing’s funds as they are grappling with the US and EU sanctions announced after 2021 coup. India has a military facility in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which is less than 60 kilometres (37.2 miles) away from the Coco Islands. The nation is ramping up its capacity in that island chain, the officials said, without giving more information. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India confronts Myanmar over construction of Chinese spy posts in neighbouring Coco Islands: Report

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The United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Japan, and Australia on Wednesday (March 29) expressed their concerns over the dissolution of deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party, the news agency Reuters reported. A day earlier, the junta disbanded the NLD and 39 other political parties over their failure to meet a deadline to register for an election that is set to extend the army's grip on power.

In January, the junta had given political parties two months to re-register under a strict new electoral law ahead of the election. According to state broadcaster MRTV, only 50 out of the 90 existing parties applied to re-register under the new rules.&nbsp;

In separate statements, the governments of the US, UK, Japan, and Australia condemned the junta's decision.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters, US State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel said, "Any election without the participation of all stakeholders in Burma (Myanmar's former name) would not be and can not be considered free or fair."

Criticising the dissolution of the NLD, a spokesperson from Britain's foreign office said, "We condemn the military regime's politically motivated actions and their use of increasingly brutal tactics to sow fear and repress opposition."

"We are seriously concerned that the exclusion of the NLD from the political process will make it even more difficult to improve the situation," Japan's foreign ministry said in a statement. The ministry added that Japan strongly urged Myanmar to immediately release NLD officials, including Suu Kyi, and to show a path toward a peaceful resolution of the issue in a manner that includes all parties concerned.&nbsp;

Australia, meanwhile, said it was seriously concerned about a further narrowing of political space in Myanmar because of tough election registration requirements. In a statement, Australia's Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade said all stakeholders should be allowed to participate in the political process and warned their exclusion could lead to further violence and instability.

"We will continue to closely monitor the regime's actions, and call for the restoration of democracy including credible elections," the statement added.&nbsp;

Myanmar has been in turmoil since a military coup two years back&nbsp;that upended a decade of tentative democracy, and a bloody crackdown on protests giving rise&nbsp;to an armed struggle against the junta.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Japan, and Australia on Wednesday (March 29) expressed their concerns over the dissolution of deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party, the news agency Reuters reported.

The United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Japan, and Australia on Wednesday (March 29) expressed their concerns over the dissolution of deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party, the news agency Reuters reported. A day earlier, the junta disbanded the NLD and 39 other political parties over their failure to meet a deadline to register for an election that is set to extend the army's grip on power. In January, the junta had given political parties two months to re-register under a strict new electoral law ahead of the election. According to state broadcaster MRTV, only 50 out of the 90 existing parties applied to re-register under the new rules. In separate statements, the governments of the US, UK, Japan, and Australia condemned the junta's decision. Speaking to reporters, US State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel said, "Any election without the participation of all stakeholders in Burma (Myanmar's former name) would not be and can not be considered free or fair." Criticising the dissolution of the NLD, a spokesperson from Britain's foreign office said, "We condemn the military regime's politically motivated actions and their use of increasingly brutal tactics to sow fear and repress opposition." "We are seriously concerned that the exclusion of the NLD from the political process will make it even more difficult to improve the situation," Japan's foreign ministry said in a statement. The ministry added that Japan strongly urged Myanmar to immediately release NLD officials, including Suu Kyi, and to show a path toward a peaceful resolution of the issue in a manner that includes all parties concerned. Australia, meanwhile, said it was seriously concerned about a further narrowing of political space in Myanmar because of tough election registration requirements. In a statement, Australia's Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade said all stakeholders should be allowed to participate in the political process and warned their exclusion could lead to further violence and instability. "We will continue to closely monitor the regime's actions, and call for the restoration of democracy including credible elections," the statement added. Myanmar has been in turmoil since a military coup two years back that upended a decade of tentative democracy, and a bloody crackdown on protests giving rise to an armed struggle against the junta. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US, 3 other nations express concerns over dissolution of Myanmar's NLD party

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