Thank you Mr Chairman,

The Delegation of Maldives wishes to express its appreciation to the Special Rapporteur Mr. Tomás Ojea Quintana for his report on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, which documents significant improvements in the human rights situation in Myanmar.

Mr Chairman,

The Maldives welcomes the positive developments in Myanmar and the commitment of the Government of Myanmar towards political reform and democratization. In addition to opening up of space for civic dialogue and engagement, my delegation is pleased to note the significant steps taken towards ensuring freedom of peaceful assembly and association. The Maldives commends the Government of Myanmar for its continued engagement with the Special Rapporteur and for supporting him during his visits to Myanmar, especially to rural areas including the Rakhine State.

My delegation encourages the Government of Myanmar to consider the Special Rapporteur’s recommendations contained in his report, in particular on Rakhine State, in order to address the issues confronting all ethnic groups including the Muslim populations.

Mr Chairman,

I would also like to use this opportunity to pose a question to the special rapporteur regarding his report:

How can the international community, especially the United Nations, provide support to addressing the issue of reconciliation amongst the ethnic groups?

I thank you Mr. Chairman