Shipments of typhoon aid items from AHA Centre arrived at Nội Bài International Airport in Hà Nội over the weekend. — Photo from AHA Centre/Japanese Embassy in Việt Nam

HÀ NỘI — Three shipments of humanitarian relief items arrived in Nội Bài International Airport in Hà Nội as part of the response by the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (AHA Centre) to the devastation caused by powerful typhoon Yagi in Việt Nam.

The goods had been pre-positioned at the AHA Centre - Subang Regional Warehouse, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Upon arrival, the shipments -- including 2000 family kits, 1000 shelter repair kits, 1000 kitchen sets and 3000 personal hygiene kits, equivalent to a total of US$250,000 -- were received by the Việt Nam Disaster and Dyke Management Authority (VDDMA) and transported to the affected provinces such as Yên Bái and Lào Cai provinces, for further distribution by the local authorities.

Japan and Switzerland have been cooperating closely with the AHA-Centre, commended the ASEAN for yet another swift response.

Japanese Ambassador to Việt Nam Ito Naoki said "I praise the initiative of the AHA-Centre, as it underscores the importance of neighbourhood solidarity in response to such a calamity. The ASEAN “as One response”, has demonstrated its relevance and effectiveness.” "

For his part, Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass remarked that “The response of the AHA-Centre to this emergency has been impressive. The speed of this regional mechanism, speaks to its effectiveness. It is a source of pride to associated development partners.” — VNS