EU condemns Myanmar's ongoing violence against Rohingyas

The European Union (EU) has condemned the ongoing violence against the Rohingyas in Myanmar's Rakhine state. High Representative of European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and also the Vice-President of the Commission Federica Mogherini issued a statement in this regard on Thursday. Federica Mogherini said: “The situation in Northern Rakhine State in Myanmar is extremely serious and has our [EU] full attention.” She added: “I was in touch with the Foreign Minister of Indonesia, Retno Marsudi, following her visit to Myanmar and Bangladesh, and through our European Union Delegation in Yangon and elsewhere, we are in close contact with the authorities in Myanmar, in the region and beyond.” Addressing the recent spike in violence in Rakhine state, the EU high representative said: “As the European Union, we condemn the attacks on August 25 on Myanmar security forces in Northern Rakhine State and the subsequent violence, and we expect the perpetrators to be brought to justice in line with the rule of law. The security forces involved in ongoing operations have a duty to exercise maximum restraint and to protect unarmed civilians.” The EU also expressed its commitment to supporting the Myanmar government and all stakeholders in finding sustainable solutions towards lasting peace and stability for the benefit of the whole population. The statement reads: “There is an urgent need for a de-escalation of tensions, on all sides, and for full observance of international human rights law.” It also says that “unrestricted humanitarian access,” especially for aid workers, is essential for reaching those who desperately need it. The European Union stands in solidarity with the Bangladeshi authorities, who have played a crucial humanitarian role in welcoming the refugees who have arrived as a result of the crisis. “The Government of Myanmar has committed to implementing the recommendations of the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State,” said Mogherini, adding that this should be done without delay and with full determination. The EU has offered its full support in practical terms to the Myanmar government's implementation of the EU recommendations, aimed at avoiding further deterioration of the situation.