United Nations Radio

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is heading for Myanmar where relief workers continue to help the survivors of the cyclone which struck the country at the beginning of the month.

Speaking to reporters before leaving New York this morning, the Secretary-General noted that the United Nations and its partners have a functioning relief programme in place in Myanmar but so far they have been able to reach only about 25 per cent of the people in need.

He said the aim of going to Myanmar is to demonstrate his sympathy to the people and government of Myanmar at this time of crisis and challenge and to see for himself the situation on the ground, particularly in areas most affected by the disaster as well as to see the conditions under which relief teams are working.

"And I intend to do all I can to reinforce their efforts in coordination with Myanmar authorities and international aid agencies. I will discuss with everyone government officials, the leaders of neighbouring countries and relief coordinators and international donors the way forward and how best to save life and prevent further hardship."

On Sunday, the Secretary-General will participate in a pledging conference in Yangon sponsored by the Association of Asian Nations and the United Nations.

For UN Radio, I'm Bissera Kostova.

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