Dutch royal family expresses solidarity with Myanmar in wake of devastating earthquake

The Dutch royal family has expressed deep sympathy for the victims of the powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday, March 28. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima shared their condolences in a message released by the Dutch Royal Palace late Saturday evening.

"The enormous consequences of the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar yesterday, which was felt far beyond, are gradually becoming clear," the royal couple said. "Our thoughts go out to the victims. We sympathize with everyone who is mourning loved ones or is concerned about their fate, and we wish strength to all those who are working to assist those in need."

The earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.7, was followed by a 6.4 aftershock, causing significant destruction across Myanmar and beyond. According to the latest reports, more than 1,600 lives have been lost due to the disaster. Buildings, bridges, and roads have been completely destroyed, creating widespread devastation across the region.

In response to the natural disaster, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a travel advisory for both Myanmar and Thailand. The earthquake has caused severe damage to critical infrastructure, especially in Myanmar, where several airports remain closed, and roads and bridges between Mandalay and Yangon have collapsed. Power outages and widespread communication failures have left much of the country without electricity or phone service.

The ministry has advised travelers to avoid non-essential travel to Myanmar, which had already been under a high-risk travel advisory due to political instability following the 2021 military coup. Large parts of the north, west, and east of the country, including the Golden Triangle, were classified as red zones, indicating a complete advisory against travel. The rest of Myanmar was labeled orange, meaning travel should be restricted to essential purposes only.

The earthquake has prompted several Dutch nationals to reach out to the ANWB Emergency Center. At least 15 reports have been filed by Dutch travelers, some of whom missed flights, while others were forced to leave passports behind in hotels. Fortunately, there have been no reports of Dutch tourists suffering injuries, according to a spokesperson from the emergency center.

Although air travel has resumed in Thailand and most essential services are operational, some buildings have not been declared structurally safe, and authorities have urged travelers to exercise caution.