Myanmar has shared information on arrangements made for prospective returnees from Bangladesh and implementing the recommendations made in the Preliminary Needs Assessment report at Cox’s Bazar, said Union Minister U Kyaw Tin at the working dinner for the 52nd AMM in Bangkok, Thailand on 30 July.
For better or worse, the Rakhine situation is one of the most complex and challenging problems in Myanmar’s modern history. The Union Government and the UN have formed their respective investigation commissions, and many more similar groups have contributed, to review the stability, rule of law, humanitarian assistance and repatriation status of Rakhine State.
The world has differing opinions on Myanmar concerning the situation in Rakhine State. On the one hand are countries who try to negatively put pressure on Myanmar with prejudice and on the other hand there are countries that offer constructive criticism and genuine support through these difficult times.
It is important to refrain from making the situation more complicated and avoid driving a wedge between the different organizations and communities.
The Union Government has promised the communities in Rakhine to implement stability, security and development to the best of its abilities. They have formed respective commissions to speed up the process. The Union Government is earnestly cooperating with the UN and ASEAN to create a conducive environment for potential returnees and addressing the root causes of the problem.
Myanmar’s recent collaborations with ASEAN are not meant to replace UN’s assistance. They are simply mutual support provided among regional neighbours.
The Rakhine situation is among one of the many challenges presented to the Union Government as it puts in concentrated effort in Myanmar’s democratic transition and journey towards peace, national reconciliation and development. The reason its garnering so much attention is due to the misguided portrayal by international media.
The Rakhine situation is extremely nuanced and complex with deep-rooted underlying reasons that date back decades in the past. It requires careful review and an open-minded approach to resolve it.
We must understand that it will take time and dedication to rebuild trust and instil harmony among the different communities of Rakhine and work towards achieving it together.
We welcome ASEAN’s extended support for implementing sustainable development, rule of law, harmonious coexistence in Rakhine State and assisting Myanmar’s government in realizing them.
Furthermore, we must continue working hand in hand with our neighbours and affiliated countries to resolve issues of peace, development and stability across the whole of Myanmar.-GNLM
