Canada concerned about restrictions on humanitarian access in Rakhine state, Myanmar

September 22, 2017 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today issued the following statement:

“Canada is deeply concerned about the ongoing and unacceptable violence in Myanmar, particularly the situation in Rakhine state concerning Rohingya Muslims and other ethnic minorities.

“Canada condemns this violence and demands an end to threats against humanitarian workers. As the need for life-saving assistance, especially for women and children, is becoming more critical with each passing day, aid workers require free and safe access to the state of Rakhine.

“Global Affairs Canada officials are working diligently with humanitarian partners on the ground to pursue all options to deliver immediate life-saving assistance. Despite best efforts, international humanitarian assistance delivery in Rakhine continues to be limited by severe restrictions.

“Canada calls on all military and civilian authorities in Myanmar to facilitate rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief in accordance with international law.”

Associated Links

• Canada and the crisis in Myanmar’s Rakhine State

Contacts

Marie-Emmanuelle Cadieux
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
343-203-6238
marie-emmanuelle.cadieux@international.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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