Narinjara News, 27 August 2024

The United States of America and the United Kingdomhave called on all parties in the Arakan State of Myanmar to prioritize theprotection of civilians from any harm.

In a statement remembering the Rohingya genocide, theUS secretary of State Antony J Blinken reiterated that Washington DC continuesto call on all parties to emphasis on  protecting civilians from any harm.He also stated that their support for the people of Myanmar in the aspirationsfor a democratic, inclusive and peaceful future remains unwavering.

"The ongoing humanitarian crisis and human rightsabuses in Myanmar exacerbate the difficulties faced by many of Myanmar’s ethnicand religious minority groups, particularly the Rohingyas,” he commented.

Washington DC  stands with survivors of theRohingya genocide and is committed to provide life-saving assistance to thecommunities and others affected by the crisis in Myanmar, Bangladesh, and othernations.

Over the past seven years, the US governmentcontributed nearly $ 2.4 billion in humanitarian assistance and conductedextensive documentation of the atrocities and abuses committed against theRohingya and other civilians, added the statement.

Meanwhile, in the statement issued by the UK embassy’shead of mission (Yangon) Ken O'Flaherty, said that seven years ago, the Myanmarmilitary launched a series of brutal attacks on Rohingya communities in ArakanState amounting to an ethnic cleansing.

"Tragically, the escalation of conflict in ArakanState is increasing the risks that the Rohingya and other communities face.Recent attacks in northern Arakan State are worrying examples of the impact ofthis intensified violence. I reiterate the need for all parties to prioritizethe protection of civilians.

"Today, as always, my thoughts are with allcommunities who have lost loved ones and who continue to be divided by theongoing conflict in Myanmar. The UK will not stop supporting internationalefforts to ensure accountability and justice in Myanmar, including through theUN’s independent investigative mechanism for Myanmar and the InternationalCourt of Justice,” it added.