EU urges Myanmar to resolve Rohingya minority issue
July 22, 2013
BRUSSELS -- The EU Foreign Affairs Council, Monday, welcomed and endorsed a "Comprehensive Framework" consisting of priorities for the European Union's policy and support in the next three years to Myanmar/Burma.
"This Framework sets forth EU's goals and priorities geared towards building a lasting partnership and promoting closer engagement with the country as a whole," said a council statement.
The EU encouraged the immediate end of hostilities across the country, including in the Kachin State. It called for the early launch of inclusive political negotiations aimed at a lasting peace settlement.
The EU urged the government to pursue and implement durable solutions to the underlying causes of the tensions in the Rakhine State.
"These should include addressing the welfare needs and the status of the Rohingya minority. Most urgent is the need to deal with human rights and humanitarian needs of the displaced population," it noted.
"Restrictions on the freedom of movement and denial of access to health care should not be allowed to continue. The government should secure unfettered access for humanitarian and development workers in all areas," it said.
According to media reports, thousands of Rohingya Muslims have been driven out of their homes and dozens killed in violence by the Buddhist majority in Myanmar.
The EU also expressed support to Myanmar's participation in regional integration, with particular emphasis in the upcoming chairmanship of ASEAN.
