Secretary-General Expresses Shock over Reported Comments by Myanmar Senior General, Calls for Unified Stance against Incitement to Hatred

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary‑General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General is shocked at reports today of remarks attributed to Myanmar Senior General U Min Aung Hlaing.  He urges all leaders in Myanmar to take a unified stance against incitement to hatred and to promote communal harmony.  Such leadership is critically needed to advance institutional measures to combat discrimination and implement the recommendations of the Rakhine Advisory Commission.

The Secretary-General reiterates the importance of addressing the root causes of the violence and the responsibility of the Government of Myanmar to provide security and assistance to those in need.  Meanwhile, it is critical that conditions are put in place to ensure that the Rohingya are able to return home voluntarily, in safety and in dignity.