King Charles conveys “deepest sympathy” to Myanmar after the earthquake – National
King Charles III sent his “deepest sympathy” to the victims of the powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, killing more than 1,600 people.
The powerful earthquake rocked Myanmar and neighboring Thailand on March 28, destroying buildings, bridges and dams. The junta said on Saturday that 1,644 people were killed, thousands were injured and dozens were missing.
Charles, 76, and his wife, Queen Camilla, expressed concern and grief in his first statement since he was briefly hospitalized earlier this week.
“For the people of Myanmar, my wife and I were the most shocking and sad, learning of the devastating earthquake, the devastating defeat of Myanmar, the tragic loss of damage to houses, buildings and livelihoods, is not to mention the destruction of the sacred Pagodas, Monasteries, Monasteries and other places of worship.”
He continued: “I know that the Burmese people continue to endure so much hardship and tragedy in your life, and I have long admired your extraordinary resilience and spirit.”
“In this most difficult and heartbreaking time, my wife and I express our deepest sympathy to all those who have suffered the serious tragedy of losing loved ones, houses and previous livelihoods.”
In a statement, Buckingham Palace said Charles was briefly hospitalized on March 27 for observation after experiencing “temporary side effects” associated with scheduled cancer treatment.
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“Je's downtown has now returned to the Clarence House, as a precautionary measure, acting in accordance with medical advice, and tomorrow's diary plan will also be rescheduled,” the palace said.
The king's health has been under the radar since he announced he was diagnosed with undisclosed cancer early last year.
He left public duties for about three months but continued to perform state duties, such as reviewing government documents and meeting with the Prime Minister.
Charles' cancer diagnosis put pressure on the British monarch, which was still developing after the late Elizabeth II's reign for 70 years.
His disease is that of the daughter of the Welsh Princess Kate was also diagnosed with cancer. Prince William's wife Kate took six months off before returning to public duties in late September.
Pope Francis also prayed to victims of a strong earthquake in Southeast Asia after he was hospitalized for five weeks in the Vatican on March 28.
“The Pope has been informed of the disaster in Myanmar and is praying for the dramatic situation and many victims,” the Vatican said.
The earthquake hit at noon Friday, followed by several aftershocks, including the 6.4 aftershock. In Thailand, the earthquake shocked the Greater Bangkok region, killing 10 people.
Several countries, including Malaysia, Russia and China, have sent rescue and relief teams.
– Documents with the Associated Press
& Copy 2025 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
