United States Condemns Violence in Thandwe, Rakhine State

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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