Statement by India under Agenda Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, during the46th Session of Human Rights Council (22 February – 23 March 2021) delivered by Mr. Puneet Agrawal, Ambassador & Deputy Permanent Representative,
(Geneva, 11 March 2021)
Madam President,
India shares a long land and maritime border with Myanmar. As its close neighbor with which we share strong people-to-people ties, India has direct stakes in the maintenance of peace and stability in the country. We are, therefore, deeply concerned with the recent developments, including the loss of lives, in Myanmar. We hope that there is no further loss of lives and calm prevails at the earliest.
2. The safety and well being of the people of Myanmar remains our priority. We urge maximum restraint in a difficult and volatile situation. We strongly believe that the rule of law and democratic process must be upheld.
Madam President,
3. As a large democracy and neighbour of Myanmar, we have remained heavily invested in the process of democratic transition in Myanmar for it to emerge as a stable democratic federal union. Our developmental and humanitarian efforts in Myanmar have been aimed at the socio-economic development of the country. We need to continue with these efforts in the interest of the people of Myanmar. We feel that people on the ground should not suffer.
4. We have noted that the recent informal ASEAN Ministerial Meeting called on the parties concerned to seek a peaceful solution through constructive dialogue, and practical reconciliation in the interests of the people and their livelihood. As a close friend and neighbour of Myanmar and its people, India will continue to closely monitor the situation and remain engaged with like-minded countries to meet the hopes and aspirations of the people of the country. The international community must work together and lend its meaningful support at this critical juncture, so that the people of Myanmar do not suffer.
Thank you, Madam President.
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