May 9, 2008
Bangkok - Cyclone-hit Myanmar is becoming "more flexible" over accepting international aid, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Noppadon Pattama.
Noppadon spoke by telephone with his Burmese counterpart Nyan Win amid criticism that the military-run country was not allowing in international aid workers.
"His position, or the tone of his voice, is getting more flexible. He will welcome humanitarian assistance," Noppadon told reporters in Tokyo.
"I'm sure they would welcome international humanitarian assistance," he said, "because people are suffering and humanitarian assistance will go directly to the people, not to the junta."
However, Myanmar's foreign ministry made an announcement in a state-run newspaper that it needed outside aid but could deliver it itself, according to AFP.
Noppadon called for help from Asian countries including in the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
"To solve the Myanmar problem, we need Chinese, Indian assistance," he said. "ASEAN should play a more active role in addressing the Myanmar issue."
