The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Vassily A. Nebenzia (Russian Federation):
The members of the Security Council expressed their deep concern over the continuation of the state of emergency imposed on Myanmar by the military on February 1, 2021 and its serious consequences. They reiterated their calls for the release of all those still arbitrarily detained, including State Councilor Aung San Suu Kyi and President Win Myint.
The members of the Security Council reiterated their support for Myanmar’s democratic transition, including the need to maintain democratic institutions and processes, with full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms as well as the state by right. They also reiterated their call for continued dialogue with all parties concerned and for reconciliation in accordance with the will and interests of the people of Myanmar.
The members of the Security Council expressed their deep concern at recent renewed violence in the country and were alarmed at the large number of internally displaced persons. They condemned attacks on infrastructure, including health and education facilities. They called for an immediate halt to all forms of violence throughout the country and to ensure the safety of civilians.
They expressed their deep concern over the dramatic increase in humanitarian needs, especially among women, children and vulnerable groups, in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. They stressed the need to urgently scale up humanitarian assistance and facilitate the equitable, safe and unhindered delivery and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. They reiterated the need for full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to all people in need, as well as the protection, safety and security of humanitarian and medical personnel.
The members of the Security Council reiterated their full support for the role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in facilitating a peaceful solution for the benefit of the people of Myanmar and their means. of subsistence. They reiterated their calls for the prompt and full implementation of the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus. They welcomed the appointment of Prak Sokhonn as ASEAN Special Envoy, expressed support for his role and diplomatic efforts to start a constructive dialogue between all parties concerned. They look forward to his visit to Myanmar as soon as possible to meet with all parties concerned and conduct mediation that facilitates the dialogue process, as well as the provision of humanitarian assistance.
Members of the Security Council underscored the important role of the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Myanmar and encouraged her to maintain communication and actively engage with all relevant parties in Myanmar. They also encouraged the complementarity of its work with the work of ASEAN.
Members of the Security Council reiterated the need to address the root causes of the crisis in Rakhine State and reiterated their concern over recent developments which pose additional and particularly serious challenges for voluntary return, safe, dignified and sustainable Rohingya refugees and displaced persons. . They encouraged diplomatic efforts between relevant parties to help resolve the issues facing the Rohingya. They recalled the vital need for the rights of minorities to be fully protected.
The members of the Security Council reaffirmed their support for the people of Myanmar and the country’s democratic transition and their firm commitment to the sovereignty, political independence, territorial integrity and unity of Myanmar.
For news media. Not an official record.
