YouSaid · the spoken record

Wunna Maung Lwin

lines on the record: 71
first: 2011-09-24
most recent: 2015-09-24
sittings or episodes: 4
sources: un-general-debate

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“We shall remain fully committed and relentless in our efforts for peace, democracy and inclusive socio- economic development for the people of Myanmar.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“The forthcoming elections will be transparent, free and fair. As such, the Government is working together with local stakeholders and international partners. Over the past four and a half years, we have been able to enhance peace, stability and the rule of law and socioeconomic development in the country. Some may not be content with the pace of our reform process. However, it is undeniable that we have been able to create better political and socio-economic conditions, foster national reconciliation through a culture of dialogue, and expand space for civil societies in nation-building. In closing, it is important to highlight that Myanmar’s democratic reform process is gaining momentum and moving in the right direction. The international community should continue its support to Myanmar in an objective and constructive manner.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Our signing of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights in July 2015 and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict on 28 September was clear testimony to rising human rights standards in Myanmar. Myanmar suffered a devastating natural disaster in late July and August in the wake of Cyclone Komen. The damage inflicted by floods and landslides from torrential rains this year is more intense and widespread than that of cyclone Nargis seven years ago. We appreciate the kind assistance given to the affected people by friendly countries near and far, the United Nations and the international community. This year, 2015, is vital for Myanmar as we will hold general elections on 8 November.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Recent reforms in Myanmar have contributed to our people’s ability to better enjoy fundamental human rights and freedoms. The Myanmar National Human Rights Commission, first established in 2011, was reconstituted in line with the Paris Principles following the enactment of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission Law in 2014. Widening the space for people to express their views and opinions has been one of the most visible developments in Myanmar. Greater media freedom has been granted throughout the country by abolishing press censorship and permitting the publication of daily newspapers and weekly journals. Myanmar has also made significant progress in expanding the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Democracy will not flourish in the absence of peace. Without peace, economic development will not be sustained. In this strong conviction, President Thein Sein extended an olive branch to armed groups shortly after taking office with the aim of building sustainable and lasting peace in Myanmar. Negotiations have been going on to determine the timing and modality for the signing of a nationwide ceasefire agreement. The Government, for its part, is fully prepared and patiently waiting for signature. We are hoping to sign the nationwide ceasefire agreement in the very near future. We will then continue discussions over the framework for a political dialogue. We appreciate the interest in and support of the international community for our peace process. The promotion and protection of human rights have always been high on our agenda.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Peace and stability has been restored. As I speak, more than 20 different aid organizations are providing humanitarian and other assistance in Rakhine state. We thank the regional and international partners for their kind assistance to humanitarian, resettlement, reintegration and development needs. The Interfaith Friendship Group in Myanmar has a nationwide set-up and is composed of representatives of all faiths. The Group holds monthly meetings and conveys messages of peace and harmony to the public. They also make religious site visits and provide assistance to the needy as necessary. Various civil 15-29822 13/29 A/70/PV.26 02/10/2015 society organizations are also playing their part in bridging different communities. Peace is a prerequisite for national reconciliation and a cornerstone for building a new democratic society in Myanmar.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“That is feasible if we can maintain this average annual growth rate over the coming years. The framework for economic and social reforms launched in 2013 for sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction is a solid platform for our LDC graduation ambition. One International Monetary Fund evaluation is that economic prospects of Myanmar remain strong. Myanmar is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country where freedom of religion is guaranteed in its State Constitution. The houses of worship of different faiths stand side by side across the country where different communities share the same neighbourhood. The situation in Rakhine state has changed. The Government has managed not only to prevent any new violence but has also started to promote a culture of peace through interfaith dialogue and talks among communities and their leaders.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“A new political culture of dialogue has taken root as Myanmar opened its doors to different political forces since the early days of the reforms. Amnesties were granted on several occasions allowing former prisoners to take part in nation-building endeavours. Activists, media people, entrepreneurs and academicians living abroad have returned home. They are working hand in hand with the Government for the common goal of a peaceful and prosperous Myanmar. Unavoidably, there are still challenges typical of a young democracy, but we believe they are not insurmountable. Economic sector reform has proven successful. Myanmar maintains an average growth rate of 8 per cent gross domestic product in a four-year time frame. Myanmar is aiming at graduating from the least developed countries (LDCs) group at an early date.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Myanmar shares the concerns expressed by many in this Hall about the migratiants in Europe and Asia. Saving lives on the journey, better legal migration policies, creating better opportunities at home and the suppression of people smuggling and trafficking networks are essential to addressing illegal migration everywhere. We strongly believe that economic migration and human trafficking must be urgently addressed in a comprehensive manner. Let me turn to the state of affairs in my home country, Myanmar. Democratic reforms started in 2011. The Government is now consolidating firm foundations for democracy. The reforms have widened the democratic space, advanced economic performance and narrowed differences with the non-State armed groups.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“They will also hinder the realization of the SDGs. We therefore call for the early lifting of such measures. The world is experiencing shifting patterns of rainfall and snowfall, rising temperatures and heavy rainstorms. While we envisage a sustainable and resilient planet, scientific agencies agree that human activities are contributing to climate change. This is the time to translate commitments into action and not to argue. It is crucial that the 2015 Paris Climate Change Conference reach a meaningful and universal climate change agreement keeping global warming below 2°C. It must also include obligations to provide the least developed countries with adequate and additional financial and technological resources to help address the impacts of climate change. Migration definitely is not a new phenomenon.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“While we have lifted more than 1 billion people out of extreme poverty, some 800 million people are still excessively poor. Myanmar has made notable progress in poverty and hunger reduction, eliminating gender disparity in basic education, reducing the child mortality rate, improving maternal health and advancing a global partnership for development. The adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development this year will take over the unfinished business of the MDGs. Political commitment, enhanced partnership, the strengthening of capacity and the provision of adequate means of implementation will be keys to success in realizing ambitious Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Unilateral economic sanctions imposed on developing countries have a negative impact on their efforts on behalf of their people.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Peacekeeping has been one of the most effective tools available to the United Nations to assist countries struggling on their difficult path from conflict to peace. Today, the nature of conflicts is changing and becomes increasingly complex. We therefore welcome the Secretary-General’s timely efforts reviewing United Nations peace operations. At the same time, it is of paramount importance not to weaken the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter as well as the 12/29 15-29822 02/10/2015 A/70/PV.26 cardinal principles of traditional peacekeeping of the United Nations. Fifteen years ago, we gathered here and committed ourselves to fight against poverty. We set ambitious Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and targets.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“That was followed by Myanmar’s ratification of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on Their Destruction in December 2014 and of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction. These actions demonstrate Myanmar’s dedicated commitment to the cause of disarmament. Every year Myanmar introduces a resolution on nuclear disarmament that is adopted with the support of a great majority of Member States. The resolution reflects our firm conviction that our world will be more secure and safer without nuclear weapons. As the main sponsor of the resolution, once again we invite all Member States to continue to support the resolution this year.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“The United Nations Development Programme and the United Nations Environment Programme were also initiated. U Thant believed that the United Nations needed to meet the needs and hopes of people everywhere. That vision is more relevant than ever to the work of the Organization and should guide us beyond the United Nations at 70. During the tenure of the present Government, Myanmar has moved to raise its profile in the field of disarmament. We started with the signing of the Additional Protocol of the International Atomic Energy Agency in September 2013.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Yet, human rights issues are increasingly politicized and exploited. The principles of universality, objectivity and non-selectivity are at stake. Myanmar firmly believes that the universal periodic review is the forum where promotion and protection of human rights can best be addressed with objectivity and impartiality on an equal footing. The most significant milestone contribution Myanmar has made to the United Nations was providing the Organization with a Secretary-General. He served the Organization from 1961 to 1971 at a difficult time of ideological contention, mistrust and security tensions among nations. He played an important role in enhancing security and expanding the Organization’s work on economic and social development in poor countries.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Today’s new and emerging challenges are increasingly calling the effectiveness and efficiency of the Organization into question. While the cardinal principles of the Charter of the United Nations remain valid today, the world Organization, which was founded seven decades ago, needs to be reformed in conformity with today’s changing realities and the drastic growth in membership. We believe that the Security Council also has to be reformed to make it more representative, efficient and transparent and to strengthen its capacity to better discharge its responsibilities to maintain international peace and security, as entrusted by the Charter. As part of the United Nations reform, we set up the Human Rights Council in 2006 to redress the shortcomings of its predecessor, the Commission on Human Rights.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“The unanimous adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1) last week has added to the long list of its achievements. Still, daunting challenges remain. The colonial legacy with its inherited divisions influences today’s conflicts across the world, depriving many of economic and social development. The rising threats of terrorism and acts of violent extremism need to be addressed decisively. Climate change and environmental degradation are undermining the development and lives of the poor. Inequalities are widening, pushing the poor further behind. The time is now opportune to do soul-searching on the future of the Organization and to strengthen our collective resolve to address the challenges of our time, particularly to advance its priorities, capacity and reform.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“The United Nations was founded to safeguard international peace and security in order to save succeeding generations 15-29822 11/29 A/70/PV.26 02/10/2015 from the scourge of war. The Organization deserves the highest credit for its achievement in preventing the outbreak of another world war of the kind that has plagued us twice in the past. On the other hand, it is confronted with regional conflicts, a rising tide of non-traditional threats and violent extremism. We need to do more to address these challenges, collectively. There are also achievements in bringing a better life to all. Lifting millions out of poverty, sending millions more children to school, combating deadly diseases, and promoting gender equality and human rights are remarkable milestones in the United Nations journey.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“First of all, I should like to join previous speakers in congratulating you, Sir, on your election to the presidency of the General Assembly at its seventieth session. I am confident that your able leadership and diplomatic skills will steer our deliberations to a successful conclusion. I assure you of my delegation’s full support and cooperation. I should also like to commend the outstanding work of your predecessor, His Excellency Mr. Sam Kahamba Kutesa, at the sixty-ninth session of the General Assembly. This year marks the seventieth anniversary of the United Nations. This historic occasion affords us the opportunity to reflect on and look back at the achievements of the world Organization.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Myanmar is changing, and changing in the right direction. We are laying a solid foundation for a democratic State in which we can live in harmony, peace and prosperity. Developments in Myanmar should also be viewed in a more balanced and objective manner. It is the primary responsibility of the people of Myanmar to realize their long-held aspirations for democracy, peace and prosperity. The continued support and understanding of the international community would contribute positively to Myanmar’s reform process. Rome was not built in a day.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“A high-level national committee and subcommittees are actively coordinating domestic measures, including a transition strategy, for our graduation. We are now working closely with the relevant United Nations agencies for technical and necessary assistance. Myanmar has made tremendous progress over the past three and a half years, since it began wide-ranging reforms in transition to democracy. Myanmar’s success in peaceful transformation was even lauded as a model in the world today. Despite all those achievements, there remain many challenges and hurdles on our path to democracy and development. We are fully aware of those daunting challenges. We will not be complacent. We are resolute and determined to continue our unrelenting efforts aimed at reform and the building of a democratic State.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“We are striving to realize the structural changes from an agriculture-based economy to an industrial one. As those efforts become increasingly crystallized, we have been enjoying steady economic growth. We have achieved a growth rate in our gross domestic product of 5.6 per cent, 7.3 per cent and 8.7 per cent in the past three years, respectively. That encouraging trend in economic growth and overall progress in our reform process has made us take an important decision. Taking this opportunity, I would like to announce that Myanmar is fully determined and has initiated the internal process to graduate from its least developed country (LDC) status. In that regard, President U Thein Sein has communicated to the Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon, our intention and determination to graduate from LDC status.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“In addressing the root cause, we are working for peace, stability, harmony and development for all the people in Rakhine state. An action plan is being finalized and will soon be launched. Once in place, it will be implemented in a systematic and timely manner. I take this opportunity to thank all international partners for contributing to our efforts to address the current needs of the affected people. As development is one of the main challenges in Rakhine state, I would also like to invite the international community, particularly the United Nations, to provide much- needed development assistance there. The Government of Myanmar has been focusing on poverty reduction and rural development with a view to lifting the living standards of rural and urban people alike.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“That progress is contributing to the better enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms by the people of Myanmar. Therefore, we are now fully convinced that Myanmar should no longer remain on the agendas of the Human Rights Council and the Third Committee of the General Assembly. We are also paying great attention to and making efforts to address the issue of the communal violence that had occurred between the two communities in Rakhine state. The history, diversity and complexity of the issue must be fully understood before jumping to conclusions. The situation should not be looked at in a superficial manner. The international community should contribute pragmatically and objectively to finding a durable solution.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Sexual violence is a crime strongly abhorred in our traditional values and national culture. It is strictly forbidden by law. At the global summit in London in June this year, Myanmar joined the Declaration of Commitment to End Sexual Violence in Conflict. Its signing of the Declaration reflects the country’s State policy of zero tolerance for use of rape or sexual violence as a weapon of war. The Armed Forces of Myanmar are making important progress in its implementation of the action plan to end the recruitment of child soldiers in Myanmar. Due to our strong commitment, there is no new underage recruitment, unwittingly or otherwise. All major human rights concerns have been addressed to a larger extent in the new Myanmar than before. We have now reached the middle tier of the human rights ladder.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“The Myanmar National Human Rights Commission, which was first established in 2011, was reconstituted very recently with a view to functioning as an independent entity. Many complaint mechanisms, including the Commission, have been made available to citizens so that they can file complaints in the event of violation of their rights. In this new era, press and media freedom is one of the most visible outcomes of the reforms. In contributing to the all-inclusive reform process, the media is getting more space now. The abolishment of decades-old press censorship, the publishing of a multitude of private newspapers and journals and the enactment of a new media law are among the significant achievements in our media landscape. With firm resolve, Myanmar is now combating human trafficking, preventing gender violence and protecting children.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“We are now working on a draft framework for political dialogue that will pave the way for bringing an end to the six-decade long conflict. The Government is serious in its commitment to the success of the peace process. It is open to discussing all issues, except those that could undermine the unity and sovereignty of the State. The political dialogue will also become a historic forum for discussion of all issues of national concern. We are confident that we are now getting closer to achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace. There has been steady progress in the promotion and protection of human rights in my country. A series of presidential amnesties have been granted, which creates an enabling environment for everyone to participate in the parliament, political parties, civil society organizations and labour organizations.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Accordingly, we are laying foundations to successfully conduct an independent, free and fair election within a legal framework that does not compromise national sovereignty. In that context, Myanmar recently received the visit of a needs assessment mission from the United Nations. All existing political parties are expected to take part in the elections. The final decision will be made by the people on election day. Peace and stability are prerequisites for political stability and for the socioeconomic development of the country. Strengthening national reconciliation is an integral part of our reform process. We are working together with all ethnic armed groups in good faith to reach a nationwide ceasefire agreement. So far we have already reached such an agreement with 14 out of the 16 groups.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“We need the international community’s understanding and continued support in our efforts for economic development and capacity- building to lay a solid foundation for a democratic society. One of the issues that attracts domestic and international attention is the process of amending Myanmar’s present Constitution. In that regard, the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw set up the Constitutional Amendment Review Joint Committee in July last year. Further, after soliciting suggestions and recommendations from the general public and political parties, the Constitutional Amendment Implementation Committee was formed to address the issues of constitutional amendment based on the suggestions received. Putting democratic values into practice, the Government is placing much more emphasis and consideration on the aspirations of our people as a whole.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“It was followed by the second wave of reform, unleashing an array of political, economic, administrative and private sector development reforms. Now, the third wave of reform has been launched, which aims at laying down a firm foundation for a new democratic State and delivering benefits to the people by fulfilling their socioeconomic needs. We are determined to keep the reforms on track through ensuring peace, stability and national reconciliation. Since our democracy is still in its infancy, we are facing a multitude of daunting challenges, like other countries in transition. The Government has a long to- do list despite its limited capacity. We are determined to overcome the challenges and we are convinced that we will achieve our objectives.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Myanmar is advancing well on the path of peaceful democratic transition, which began over three years ago by setting in motion various waves of political and economic reforms. The first wave was the peaceful transformation from a military Government to a multiparty democratic system, where all political forces are working together to overcome differences through dialogue in our two houses of Parliament. An all-inclusive political system has been established, bringing in all stakeholders in the process through national reconciliation. The first wave of reform brought about national reconciliation, the granting of a series of amnesties, the creation of greater political space, freedom of the media, freedom of expression, and freedom of association and peaceful assembly.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“The scope and pace of positive changes in Myanmar have earned remarkable recognition and encouragement from the international community. Those changes have contributed to raising Myanmar’s profile in the regional and international arena. On the regional stage, Myanmar held the Chair of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation until March this year. After successfully carrying out that responsibility, we are now shouldering the prestigious responsibility of chairing ASEAN. Under our chairmanship, ASEAN is exerting its efforts to speed up the ASEAN community- building process with the theme of “Moving forward in unity to a peaceful and prosperous community”.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“We will do so once again at the present session of the General Assembly. We encourage all Member States to positively support our draft resolution. If we follow the road map in the resolution with a strong political will, a world free of nuclear weapons will be within our grasp soon. I would like to inform the Assembly that Myanmar is making domestic preparations with a view to ratifying major international disarmament instruments. Considerable achievements have been made in that process. I am pleased to announce that the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, our Union Parliament, has just approved Myanmar’s accession to the Biological Weapons Convention. The winds of change have blown across Myanmar over the past three years.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“We will continue to actively cooperate with it, in line with the principles of our foreign policy. Thanks to the positive changes in Myanmar, the cooperation between Myanmar and the United Nations is now better than ever. The United Nations and its agencies are showing greater interest in Myanmar, extending a helping hand to the people of Myanmar in all aspects of their lives. The Government, for its part, is facilitating the effective implementation of the United Nations missions. The maintenance of international peace and security is one of the main purposes of the United Nations. Myanmar, as a peace-loving nation, abhors weapons of mass destruction and is fully cognizant of the danger of nuclear weapons. To that end, Myanmar has annually submitted, since 1995, a draft resolution on nuclear disarmament.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Myanmar welcomes the swift and timely response by the Secretary-General in proactively establishing the United Nations Mission for Ebola Emergency Response. Terrorism cannot be condoned for any reason or under any circumstances. Ruthless killings and atrocities in the name of religion must not be tolerated. Myanmar has always opposed terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We are not oblivious to the fate of those who have fallen victims to terrorism. The international community must be united to eliminate those horrible crimes. In that regard, my delegation fully supports the statement issued by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers a few days ago here in New York. Myanmar firmly believes in the continued relevance and legitimacy of the United Nations in world affairs.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“In support of the vision of the President of the General Assembly for a transformative post-2015 development agenda, we must intensify our efforts at this session to set the world on the path to sustainable development in its economic, social and environmental dimensions. In that process, we must also work together to find effective means for implementation, including the mobilization of financial and technological support, in order to ensure the success of the new agenda and the sustainable development goals. The Ebola outbreak in West Africa, with its unprecedented nature and scope, is alarming. We must not see that outbreak as unique to one particular people or place. It is a common challenge to all of humankind.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Many developing countries economically dependent on agriculture, as well as small island States, will bear the brunt of its impact. It is of the utmost importance that we agree a new global commitment on climate protection and emissions-reduction objectives. My delegation is therefore thankful to Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon for organizing the Climate Summit 2014, whose message that urgent and united action is needed was loud and clear. Myanmar will continue to work together with the international community towards a meaningful, implementable and universal climate agreement in Paris in 2015.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“We are gathered here at a time when the world is facing pressing global challenges and security threats that must be addressed collectively and with urgency. Our planet is heating up owing to the clear and imminent danger of climate change. Terrorism is rearing its ugly head once again. The global village is gripped with fear of the spreading Ebola epidemic. Tension and mistrust are building up among the major Powers, reminiscent of the rivalry of the Cold War. The number and scale of regional and local conflicts is growing in some parts of the world. One billion people are still trapped in poverty. The world we want is still a distant dream. Climate change is no longer merely an issue for scientific argument; it is one of survival that requires our urgent action.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“We will never lose sight of our goals, and we are determined to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Myanmar.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“The Government of President U Thein Sein is laying a solid foundation for democracy, peace and development for the people of Myanmar. Observers have applauded Myanmar’s transition to democracy as one of the most promising efforts of democratization in the world today. The success we have achieved so far on the road to democracy has been made possible through the joint efforts of the leadership and the people of Myanmar, driven by a strong and genuine desire to change. The road ahead is long and full of challenges. We will spare no effort to overcome any challenges and move ahead on the journey on which we have set out to build a nation of peace, democracy and prosperity. As we continue our journey we need the understanding, continued encouragement and support of the United Nations and the international community.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“We are still in a critical transition period. However, we are resolute in marching forward along our chosen path. There will be no turning back. But we will not take anything for granted. It is incumbent upon the Government and people of Myanmar to be vigilant at all times so that we do not fall into the trap of the detractors of the reform process. We need the continued support and encouragement of the international community. We always welcome friendly and constructive advice and the helping hands of friends far and near in our nation-building process. However, we are fully cognizant of the fact that ultimately the people Myanmar themselves are responsible for deciding their own destiny and shaping their own future.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“The overwhelming support that we have received from the international community and the United Nations has contributed significantly to the transition efforts in the country. Myanmar is ready to take over the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2014 for the very first time since the country joined the Organization in 1997. We regard this opportunity as a great honour. We shall be working closely with our fellow ASEAN members and with ASEAN dialogue partners in discharging this important responsibility so as to move forward in unity to a peaceful and prosperous community. In the process of Myanmar’s transition to democracy, expectations are high within the country as well as in the international community. For the Government and the people of Myanmar, the task is daunting. There are many challenges ahead.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“In addition, the National Human Rights Commission, an independent human rights body of Myanmar, has also been working closely and intensively with domestic civil society organizations, interfaith groups and regional and international human rights bodies for the promotion and protection of human rights in the country. Our reform process is still nascent and at a sensitive stage where there is little room for error. With this in mind, the President has publicly emphasized the need for everyone to refrain from doing anything that could jeopardize Myanmar’s peaceful transition. While undertaking political and other reform processes domestically, we have also been able to reach out to the international community.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“President U Thein Sein has clearly stated that the Government will take a zero-tolerance approach to anyone fuelling ethnic hatred. The Government has been making serious efforts to resolve the problem through short-term and long-term plans. These include our extensive efforts, in cooperation with the United Nations and humanitarian non-governmental organizations, to improve the living conditions and livelihoods of all affected peoples, without discrimination. Parallel with these efforts, the Government is also encouraging interfaith dialogues across the country with a view to promoting understanding and trust among the different communities.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“We will try our best to ensure that no one from the communities or our national ethnic groups will be left behind and excluded from enjoying the fruits of our reforms and the exciting life of the nation. Myanmar is a multiracial and multifaith nation. Various ethnic populations with the world’s four great religions — Buddhists, Christians, Muslims and Hindus — have been living side by side in peace and harmony as fellow citizens of Myanmar. The Constitution of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar also designates the four religions as officially recognized faiths of the country. There are always people who wish to rock the boat. We will not let anyone take advantage of political openness to instigate violence among the different ethnic or religious communities.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“At this stage, the Government is strongly emphasizing the improvement of the institutional infrastructure and regulatory framework so as to facilitate business, trade and investment. We are truly grateful to the international community for its invaluable support and encouragement in our democratic transition as well as in our efforts for the socioeconomic development of the people of Myanmar. We welcome responsible trade and investment that will transfer technology to develop our economy, to create jobs and to lift our people from poverty. We are now taking the necessary steps to become a signatory to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“The hard-won peace and the success of the democratic transformation will not be realistic or sustainable until and unless we deliver on the economic and social needs of the people. Therefore, as the second component of reform, we have opened up the economy through economic liberalization, financial reform, inviting foreign investment, a people-centred development approach, rural development, poverty alleviation and equitable development. We have also created an investor-friendly environment. The Government is focusing on poverty alleviation and rural development. We have aimed at reducing the current poverty rate from 26 per cent to 16 per cent by 2015, as prescribed in the Millennium Development Goals. Recently, the Government turned its focus to private-sector development as another wave of reform.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“We are also taking steps to establish the rule of law, good governance and clean government. We have also made tangible progress in our efforts towards national reconciliation. The Government’s peace overtures have led to ceasefire agreements with all armed groups, for the first time in more than 60 years. We hope that we will be able to celebrate the signing of a nationwide ceasefire agreement in Nay Pyi Taw very soon. We are optimistic that we will be able to start a new round of political dialogue at the Union central level in the near future to strike a comprehensive and lasting peace agreement. We have no illusion that the next step will be easy, but we are determined to pursue this path for the sake of our people, as they have for so long deserved.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“Political space has been created for every stakeholder, and the all-inclusive political system is in place. The legislative bodies are also functioning well, in an active and vibrant manner. Numerous pieces of legislation have been enacted to the benefit of the people, including new laws permitting greater freedom of the press, speech and association. A series of amnesties have been granted which have set free thousands of prisoners. We are speedily working through a screening mechanism to ensure that no prisoner of conscience will remain in prison by the end of the year. The emergence of civil societies has also contributed to strengthening democratic values and practices. We have now been able to nurture a new culture of dialogue and accommodation among people of differing views and beliefs.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“Accordingly, Myanmar has been contributing its fair share to regional and international peace and security. On the domestic front, the Government of President U Thein Sein has been undertaking unprecedented wide-ranging political and economic reforms over the past two and a half years. The Government has dedicated its efforts to fulfilling the twin objectives inspired by the people: to establish peace, stability and the rule of law, and to advance socioeconomic development of the lives of the people. The first component of the reform was political transformation. The objective was to bring about peace, stability, national unity and reconciliation. Now we have been able to establish a firm foundation for building a democratic society.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)