DHAKA: Indian Permanent Mission in Geneva has expressed deep concern over the ecent spate of violence in Rakhine State of Myanmar that has resulted in the outflow of a large number of people from the country.
Amb. Rajiv K. Chander, Indian Permanent Representative in Geneva, expressed the concern during a dialogue with Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar at the 36th Session of the Human Rights Council on Tuesday (September 19).
Amb. Rajiv K. Chander in his delivery said that India is deeply concerned at the recent spate of violence in Myanmar that has resulted in the outflow of a large number of people from the State, many of whom have sought shelter in neighboring Bangladesh.
“We take note that this violence was triggered off by a series of terrorist attacks which led to loss of lives amongst the security forces as well as the civilian population.”
He said, in the past Myanmar has been tabling regular reports on internal developments at various UN bodies. After the submission of the final Report of the Kofi Annan led UN Special Advisory Commission for Rakhine State on August 24, the Myanmar government welcomed the “meaningful and long term solutions” proposed in the Report and assured that it will give full consideration to its recommendations with a view to carrying them out to the fullest extent, and within the shortest time.
Government of Myanmar has also agreed to set out a roadmap for implementation of the recommendations, including immediate establishment of a new Ministerial led committee that would be assisted by an Advisory Board on Rakhine that will include Myanmar and international experts for implementation of the recommendations. The international community must extend full support to Government of Myanmar in its efforts.
The Indian diplomat said that India has extended humanitarian relief to Bangladesh to support it in meeting the needs of Rohingya refugees. The role being played by Bangladesh in extending humanitarian assistance to the refugees deserves recognition, he added.
In his delivery, he said, “It is apparent that the only long term solution to the situation in Rakhine State is socio-economic and infrastructure development of the State. Such development would generate employment opportunities and economic activity that should have a positive impact on all the communities living in the State. It is with this understanding that we have recently agreed with Myanmar to provide financial and technical assistance for identified projects to be undertaken in Rakhine State in conjunction with the local authorities.”
Specifically, there was agreement to undertake both infrastructure and socio-economic projects, particularly in the spheres of education, health, agriculture and allied activities, agro-processing, community development, construction of small bridges, upgradation of roads, small power projects, livelihood activity, setting up of training centres, promotion of household crafts, conservation of environment and cultural heritage.
“We are of the firm belief that the international community, including UN agencies, need to continue to engage constructively with the people and Government of Myanmar.”
About 410,000 Rohingya refugees entered Bangladesh, escaping the ethnic cleansing conducted by Myanmar army and Buddhists in the country's Rakhine State began on August 25.
At least 1000 people have been killed in the operation of Mynamar army.
About a million Rohingya lived in Rakhine State until the recent violence. Most face travel restrictions and are denied citizenship in Myanmar.
BDST: 2210 HRS, SEP 19, 2017
EHJ
