16 Nov 2022
Mr Chair,
I had earlier explained Singapore’s general approach to country-specific human rights resolutions in the Third Committee. I am taking the floor now to explain Singapore’s position on the resolution on “The Situation of Human Rights of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar”.
2 The situation in Rakhine State is complex. We encourage Myanmar to work with relevant UN agencies including the UNDP and UNHCR to create conducive conditions for the safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation of refugees from Bangladesh. We recognize and commend the efforts of the Bangladeshi government to facilitate this outcome. We encourage Bangladesh and Myanmar to continue engagement and dialogue to facilitate the repatriation process. On the humanitarian front, ASEAN and member states, including Singapore, have provided humanitarian assistance to the refugees, including through the ASEAN Secretariat and the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre).
3 However, there has to be political stability in Myanmar in order for there to be stability in Rakhine State. Singapore remains deeply concerned with the dire situation in Myanmar following the 1 February 2021 military coup in Myanmar. Singapore is deeply disappointed by the lack of progress in the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus agreed at the Special ASEAN Leaders’ Meeting with the leader of the Myanmar military authorities. We continue to urge the Myanmar military authorities to work with ASEAN to implement the Five-Point Consensus expeditiously. ASEAN Leaders have also reviewed and agreed on a series of next steps at the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits and Related Summits just last week to send a clear signal to the Myanmar military authorities. ASEAN will continue to work with our external partners, including the UN, to facilitate a peaceful solution in Myanmar.
4 Singapore also welcomes the role of the UN and UN Secretary-General Special Envoy in addressing the situation in Myanmar. We support the UNSG Special Envoy’s extensive and pragmatic efforts in promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and humanitarian assistance, which complement and contribute to ASEAN’s efforts in implementing the Five-Point Consensus. ASEAN will continue to work with our external partners, including the UN, to help facilitate a peaceful solution in Myanmar.
5 Thank you for your attention.
. . . . .