Statement by India
On Agenda Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar (Oral Update), at the 36th Session of the Human Rights Council delivered by Amb. Rajiv K. Chander, Permanent Representative of India on 19 September 2017
Mr. President,
India is deeply concerned at the recent spate of violence in Rakhine State of 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.
Subsequent operations by the Myanmar security forces in the State resulted in a large outflow of people. It is imperative that violence is ended and normalcy in the State is restored expeditiously through a solution based on respect for peace, communal harmony, justice, dignity and democratic values. We urge that the situation in Rakhine State be handled with restraint, focusing on the welfare of the civilian population.
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, 2017, Government of Myanmar has 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.
There is a serious problem emerging in Bangladesh which is reportedly hosting over 300,000 refugees. India has extended humanitarian relief to Government of Bangladesh to support it in meeting the needs of refugees. The role being played by Bangladesh in extending humanitarian assistance to the refugees deserves recognition.
Mr. President,
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.
I thank you.
