Secretary-General Welcomes New Commission to Probe Causes of Recent Violence

in Myanmar, Condition of Muslim Communities

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General welcomes today’s establishment, by the President of Myanmar, of a 27-member commission to investigate the recent violent incidents in Rakhine State.

This commission is comprised of a representative cross section of national figures in the country.  It could make important contributions to restoring peace and harmony in the state, and in creating a conducive environment for a more inclusive way forward to tackle the underlying causes of the violence, including the condition of the Muslim communities in Rakhine.  This will be integral to any reconciliation process.

The United Nations stands ready to provide assistance in a constructive spirit to Myanmar’s reform and reconciliation efforts, and to help that country overcome its imminent challenges.

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For information media • not an official record