Berlin - Germany has doubled its humanitarian aid to the people of Myanmar to 1 million euros (1.5 million dollars) to help overcome the effects of the recent cyclone, the Foreign Ministry announced in Berlin on Wednesday.

Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said Germany was concerned at the scope of the disaster which has left 22,000 dead and thousands displaced.

"Priority must be given to helping the injured and homeless," the minister said. "There is an urgent need for supplies of drinking water and medicine."

Saying Germany was ready to do more to help, Steinmeier repeated his appeal to the military government to facilitate an effective assistance operation and to cooperate with international aid organizations.

Cyclone Nargis left Myanmar's largest city, Yangon, without electricity and water after it struck over the weekend, causing untold damage to the fragile infrastructure and food supply.

Steinmeier's ministry said the funds were being channelled through German aid organizations and were intended to provide emergency accommodation, drinking water, household utensils and mosquito nets. (dpa)