Foreign Minister warns those taking advantage of reforms to fuel violence

Foreign Minister warns those taking advantage of reforms to fuel violence

Published on Wednesday, 02 October 2013 20:21

Foreign Minister Wunna Maung Lwin warned to those taking advantage of political reforms to fuel ethnic or religious violence.

The minister was addressing the U.N. General Assembly in New York on Monday, where he said, "There are always people who wish to rock the boat. We will not let anyone to take advantage of political openness to instigate violence among different ethnic or religious communities."

Since June 2012, religious violence between Buddhists and minority Muslim groups has spread across Myanmar. The latest outbreak was in Thandwe, Rakhine State where a mob set houses on fire on Monday.

"Our reform process is still at a nascent and sensitive stage where there is little room for error. With this in mind, the President has publicly emphasised the need for everyone to refrain from doing anything that could jeopardise Myanmar's peaceful transition," he added.

He also highlighted the progress in government efforts towards reconciliation and said that they expect to sign a nation-wide ceasefire agreement in Nay Pyi Taw in the near future.

He called on the international community to provide assistance for economic development in Myanmar so that the country can stand on its own in the future.

Source: http://www.news.myanmaronlinecentre.com/2013/10/03/foreign-minister-warns-those-taking-advantage-of-reforms-to-fuel-violence/