Myanmar agrees to accept ASEAN cyclone aid - CNN.com

Myanmar agrees to accept ASEAN cyclone aid - CNN.com:

"BANGKOK, Thailand (CNN) -- Myanmar has agreed to let its South Asian neighbors send medical personnel and an assessment team to the cyclone-ravaged country.

Monday's decision came after an emergency meeting in Singapore of the 10 countries that make up ASEAN -- the Association of Southeast Asian Nations -- Indonesian Foreign Minister Hassan Wirayuda said.

The assessment team will go to Myanmar on Wednesday to gauge the impact of the disaster and the scope of aid needed, Wirayuda said. ..."

It has been wo weeks since Cyclone Nargis devastated parts of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma), and there are finally signs of movement in getting relief to those who need it. Hopefully the ASEAN nations can break down the barriers of isolation and suspicion that seem to permeate the government of Myanmar. In any event getting people "on the ground" who can provide authoritative information is of utmost importance.

The Presbyterian Disaster Assistance office has resources and information for disasters worldwide, including Cyclone Nargis, and the May 12, 2008 earthquake in China. This would be a good place to get updated on what the PC(USA) is able to do in that region.