October 2, 2013
Yangon – The United States
is deeply concerned about recent reports of violence against Muslim-majority
communities around Thandwe, Rakhine State. We are saddened to hear reports that
at least one person was killed, several injured, and hundreds of civilians displaced
in violence that included arson attacks destroying dozens of homes and several
mosques. The United States strongly condemns such acts of violence.
The U.S. Embassy continues to monitor the situation in
Rakhine State closely. We strongly urge the authorities to respond quickly and
decisively to the violence to help protect all the region’s residents and their
property. We further urge the authorities to thoroughly investigate and hold
accountable those responsible for the violence, and provide all necessary
protection and assistance to the victims and other vulnerable populations. The
Union government and local authorities must also do more to ensure progress in
security, rule of law, justice, humanitarian access, and reconciliation in
Rakhine State to stem the sources of on-going tension, and create conditions
for sustainable peace and development in the State.
Most importantly, we call on religious and civil society
leaders, and all citizens throughout the country, to stand against continued
violence targeting Muslim communities, and to promote understanding, mutual
respect, and peaceful co-existence among all people in this diverse country.
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