In Burma, the military junta has finally given permission for UN helicopters to distribute aid in areas devastated by Cyclone Nargis. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says the aid missions will begin shortly.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon: “We have received government permission to operate nine WFP helicopters, which will allow us to reach areas that have so far been largely inaccessible. I believe further similar moves will follow, including expediting the visas of relief workers seeking to enter the country. I am confident that emergency relief efforts can be scaled up quickly.”

The flights will center around the southwestern Irrawaddy Delta, where millions have been deprived of aid.