Ambassador of Myanmar to China Tin Maung Swe has said that after Myanmar was hit by a strong earthquake, China immediately extended a helping hand to Myanmar when it was facing the most difficult time, which made the Myanmar people deeply feel "Paukphaw" (fraternal) friendship between the two countries.

Tin Maung Swe noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping extended condolences to Myanmar's leader Min Aung Hlaing over the massive earthquake that hit the country, and Chinese rescue teams were the first to arrive in Myanmar to assist in disaster relief efforts.

He expressed gratitude for this support and emphasized that it would be remembered. Myanmar will make every effort to protect the safety of Chinese citizens, enterprises and institutions in Myanmar, the ambassador added.

Tin Maung Swe made the remarks when meeting with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong on Saturday. During the meeting, Sun delivered the message of condolence from Xi to Min Aung Hlaing over the earthquake.

Sun said the Chinese people sympathize with the heavy casualties and property losses caused by the powerful quake in Myanmar. Within 24 hours of the earthquake, the Chinese government had sent three rescue teams to Myanmar, and announced the provision of emergency humanitarian assistance.

At this challenging moment, China stands firmly with the people of Myanmar and interprets the profound meaning of the China-Myanmar community of shared future with concrete actions, he added.