The Ministry of Foreign Affairs practices an independent, non-aligned
and active Foreign Policy based on the Five Principles of Peaceful
Co-existence, being a Ministry which considers the promotion and
protection of the interests of the State and the People in the
international arena as its utmost responsibility. From the time the
present government took over State responsibility, we continued
practicing this policy, using different approaches.
Using a People-centered diplomacy, we have worked to improve and
consolidate relations with neighboring countries with whom we have
traditionally had friendly relations; re-establish friendly relations
with countries far and near; we have worked hard for promoting national
and regional interests by actively participating in ASEAN and regional
affairs in accordance with the priorities of Myanmar; we are preparing
to cooperate with the UN and international organizations in accordance
with our country’s situation and priority needs. There are many actions
that the MOFA has undertaken. During the second year term of our
Government, it may be seen that there have been many challenges, and
many issues that have been resolved in the international area.
Therefore, in order to understand the activities of MOFA and the
recently formed Ministry for International Cooperation, we have met and
interviewed U Kyaw Tin who is the Union Minister for International
Cooperation as well as the former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.
Q: How is the MOFA working for Peace and Development of the country?
As we implement our country’s programs for national reconciliation, peace, uplifting the socio-economic life of the people, and for the transition towards democracy, our job is to get the cooperation and support of other countries. We make strenuous efforts to get the constructive cooperation of the international community by engaging and communicating with other countries as we meet the challenges we are facing.
As diplomats, we provide assistance and support not only for our country’s peace and development, but also for peace and development of the countries of the world. To do this as we try to resolve the challenges we have adopted a different approach which takes into account not only the views and opinions within our country but also the views and opinions of the outside world. In accordance with our approach to practise “people-centered diplomacy”, as we work to promote friendship in our bilateral relations, we work not only in the area of government-to-government relations but also for promoting people-to-people relations, protecting and promoting the interests of the people. In working for the success of our goals, we are utilizing the united strength of the people.
Q: During the second year, what are the priority tasks for the MOFA?
A: During the second year the following priority tasks were performed by the MOFA: –
• Promoted friendly relations and cooperation with all countries around the world.
• Secured technical and financial assistances from international and regional organizations for national development.
• Worked to boost foreign trade and investments from abroad.
• Participated actively in international and regional organizations.
• Worked to uplift the image and dignity of the people and the country in the international arena.
• Worked to increase our participation in international conventions relating to human rights, climate change, and disarmament.
• Worked to protect the interests of Myanmar nationals and former Myanmar Nationals living abroad.
To achieve these objectives, we need capable diplomats. Therefore we have increased the recruitment of Foreign Service personnel and worked to build up the capacity of our diplomats.
We have also provided substantive and necessary administrative support to our diplomats so that they are able to perform their tasks at the diplomatic missions abroad in accordance with their diplomatic ranks.
While noticeable achievements were being attained in our international relations, beginning from the time terrorist attacked our border security forces in Rakhine State large numbers of refugees left our country. The media lashed out with exaggerated and distorted reports. As a result, misunderstandings, criticisms and efforts to put pressure on Myanmar developed in the international arena.
If I were to give a frank assessment, although our government attained significant achievements in foreign relations during its first one and a half year period, it faced tremendous challenges in the second half of the second year.
Therefore, the MOFA is responding to these challenges and pressures in the international arena. In addition, we are making efforts to show progress on the ground. In this way we are placing special focus on improving our international relations.
Q: Has there been any changes or challenges in the role of the MOFA during the term of the present government?
A: During the term of our government, the State Counsellor herself has concurrently taken the portfolio of the Union Minister for Foreign Affairs. Thus the coordinating role of MOFA has been further elevated. Countries of the world welcomed, supported and encouraged the new civilian government. During the first one and half years, assistance and offers of assistance surged to ensure the increased success of the democratic transition process. This is a significant change and progress in the international relations area. In spite of facing enormous challenges in the second half of the second year period, many countries of the world still remained committed and strongly supported Myanmar for a successful transition to democracy. However, as Myanmar needs to survive in the international community as a country which respects her duties and obligations, she needs to handle and resolve her problems in accordance with international norms. For this we will give due regard to the views and opinions of the international community. On the other side, as we need to act in accordance with internal requirements, the need to solve this problem in a balanced manner is a big challenge for our Ministry.
Q: Please tell us about the changes and developments that have taken place in Myanmar’s relations with countries of the world.
A: In assessing Myanmar’s international relations, it may be necessary to recognize two distinct periods: from the time the new government assumed state responsibilities to the time the terrorist attacks occurred on 25 August 2017 and the period beyond that. During the first period, we not only maintained and promoted traditional friendly ties with neighboring countries such as China, India and ASEAN countries, we were able to revive and consolidate our relations with our development partners such as the United States of America and the western European countries. During the first year, the visit of the State Counsellor to the US, we were able to work for the removal of all sanctions imposed against Myanmar.
Similarly, Myanmar was able to further consolidate the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership with China and establish not only friendship but also mutual understanding between the leaders.
As a result of improved relations with European counties, we were able to end the EU resolution on the situation of Human Rights in Myanmar in 2016 which has been tabled annually at the United Nations General Assembly since 1991. This may be seen as a significant success during the first year.
However, during the second year, although we were able to further consolidate and improve our friendly relations with China, India, ASEAN countries, and countries in the region, due to the terrorist attacks in Rakhine State, large numbers of refugees left the country. Thus, we had to face misunderstandings. Therefore, our warm relations with Western countries deteriorated. However among countries that had consistently supported and encouraged Myanmar, we have been able to maintain friendly relations and cooperation in areas of mutual interest, with countries which could appreciate the depth and complexity of our challenges. For the promotion of friendly relations with the countries of the world, the basic necessity is to provide support for the exchange of visits of Heads of State and High level delegations. In this regard, our Ministry has been able to perform diplomatic relations as well as prepare necessary background papers of discussion topics in coordination with other relevant Ministries. We were able to make systematic arrangements for these visits to have a proper balance.
Q: Please tell me about the visits of the President and the State Counsellor during the two year term of this government.
A: Former President U Htin Kyaw paid friendly visits to Laos which assumed the ASEAN chairmanship in 2016, India, China, Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia and Japan. He also visited Russia to attend the ASEAN-Russia Summit, Mongolia to attend the Asia-Europe (ASEM) Summit Meeting, and Thailand to attend the Royal Cremation Ceremony of Thailand’s late King.
The State Counsellor also visited Thailand, China, the United States, Japan, Singapore, Italy, Vatican City, United Kingdom, Belgium (home of the European Union), India and Australia. In addition, she attended the 71st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the 28th and 29th ASEAN Summit Meetings and other related meetings in Laos, Outreach Summit between BRICS and BIMSTEC Partners in India, the Royal Golden Jubilee Celebrations of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddualah in Brunei Darussalam, the 30th and 31st ASEAN Summit Meeting and other related meetings in the Philippines, the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in China, the ASEAN-APEC Leaders’ Informal Dialogue in Vietnam, the 25th ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit and the celebration of the 69th Republic Day of India in India, and the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Australia.
Q: Please also tell us about the visits of foreign dignitaries to Myanmar.
A: Heads of State from Singapore, India, Lao PDR, the Philippines, Mongolia, Cambodia and Vietnam, and His Holiness Pope Francis visited Myanmar. Foreign Ministers from China, Italy, Canada, Japan, India, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia, Britain, Hungary, US, Norway, Ukraine, Luxembourg, Netherlands, France, Czech and Turkey also visited Myanmar. Other visits included senior officials from China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, European Union, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. Apart from these visits, there were over 50 visits from aboard. We were able to arrange all these visits to foster bilateral relations and cooperation.
Q: Please tell us about the benefits we gained from these friendly visits.
A: From these friendly visits we received assistance for development of the socio-economic life of the people. We also received loans, technical assistance and financial assistance. During the two years period of the government, the President made one visit and the State Counsellor made three visits to the People’s Republic of China.This reflects how much importance we place on our friendly relations with China. The State Counsellor visited China in November 2017 to attend the Communist Party of China – CPC in Dialogue with World Political Parties High-Level Meeting as a special guest which consolidated the friendship between the leaders of both countries.
The Agreement whereby China granted RMB Yuan (1) billion for socio-economic development and the Peace process is one result of the friendly visits.
The mechanism of (2+2) consultations between the Foreign Ministry and Defence Ministry of both countries were held three times. These consultations have assisted in maintaining peace and stability along the border areas, China’s constructive support for Myanmar’s peace process and the joint settlement of border issues.
Q: How is the MOFA working for Peace and Development of the country?
As we implement our country’s programs for national reconciliation, peace, uplifting the socio-economic life of the people, and for the transition towards democracy, our job is to get the cooperation and support of other countries. We make strenuous efforts to get the constructive cooperation of the international community by engaging and communicating with other countries as we meet the challenges we are facing.
As diplomats, we provide assistance and support not only for our country’s peace and development, but also for peace and development of the countries of the world. To do this as we try to resolve the challenges we have adopted a different approach which takes into account not only the views and opinions within our country but also the views and opinions of the outside world. In accordance with our approach to practise “people-centered diplomacy”, as we work to promote friendship in our bilateral relations, we work not only in the area of government-to-government relations but also for promoting people-to-people relations, protecting and promoting the interests of the people. In working for the success of our goals, we are utilizing the united strength of the people.
Q: During the second year, what are the priority tasks for the MOFA?
A: During the second year the following priority tasks were performed by the MOFA: –
• Promoted friendly relations and cooperation with all countries around the world.
• Secured technical and financial assistances from international and regional organizations for national development.
• Worked to boost foreign trade and investments from abroad.
• Participated actively in international and regional organizations.
• Worked to uplift the image and dignity of the people and the country in the international arena.
• Worked to increase our participation in international conventions relating to human rights, climate change, and disarmament.
• Worked to protect the interests of Myanmar nationals and former Myanmar Nationals living abroad.
To achieve these objectives, we need capable diplomats. Therefore we have increased the recruitment of Foreign Service personnel and worked to build up the capacity of our diplomats.
We have also provided substantive and necessary administrative support to our diplomats so that they are able to perform their tasks at the diplomatic missions abroad in accordance with their diplomatic ranks.
While noticeable achievements were being attained in our international relations, beginning from the time terrorist attacked our border security forces in Rakhine State large numbers of refugees left our country. The media lashed out with exaggerated and distorted reports. As a result, misunderstandings, criticisms and efforts to put pressure on Myanmar developed in the international arena.
If I were to give a frank assessment, although our government attained significant achievements in foreign relations during its first one and a half year period, it faced tremendous challenges in the second half of the second year.
Therefore, the MOFA is responding to these challenges and pressures in the international arena. In addition, we are making efforts to show progress on the ground. In this way we are placing special focus on improving our international relations.
Q: Has there been any changes or challenges in the role of the MOFA during the term of the present government?
A: During the term of our government, the State Counsellor herself has concurrently taken the portfolio of the Union Minister for Foreign Affairs. Thus the coordinating role of MOFA has been further elevated. Countries of the world welcomed, supported and encouraged the new civilian government. During the first one and half years, assistance and offers of assistance surged to ensure the increased success of the democratic transition process. This is a significant change and progress in the international relations area. In spite of facing enormous challenges in the second half of the second year period, many countries of the world still remained committed and strongly supported Myanmar for a successful transition to democracy. However, as Myanmar needs to survive in the international community as a country which respects her duties and obligations, she needs to handle and resolve her problems in accordance with international norms. For this we will give due regard to the views and opinions of the international community. On the other side, as we need to act in accordance with internal requirements, the need to solve this problem in a balanced manner is a big challenge for our Ministry.
Q: Please tell us about the changes and developments that have taken place in Myanmar’s relations with countries of the world.
A: In assessing Myanmar’s international relations, it may be necessary to recognize two distinct periods: from the time the new government assumed state responsibilities to the time the terrorist attacks occurred on 25 August 2017 and the period beyond that. During the first period, we not only maintained and promoted traditional friendly ties with neighboring countries such as China, India and ASEAN countries, we were able to revive and consolidate our relations with our development partners such as the United States of America and the western European countries. During the first year, the visit of the State Counsellor to the US, we were able to work for the removal of all sanctions imposed against Myanmar.
Similarly, Myanmar was able to further consolidate the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership with China and establish not only friendship but also mutual understanding between the leaders.
As a result of improved relations with European counties, we were able to end the EU resolution on the situation of Human Rights in Myanmar in 2016 which has been tabled annually at the United Nations General Assembly since 1991. This may be seen as a significant success during the first year.
However, during the second year, although we were able to further consolidate and improve our friendly relations with China, India, ASEAN countries, and countries in the region, due to the terrorist attacks in Rakhine State, large numbers of refugees left the country. Thus, we had to face misunderstandings. Therefore, our warm relations with Western countries deteriorated. However among countries that had consistently supported and encouraged Myanmar, we have been able to maintain friendly relations and cooperation in areas of mutual interest, with countries which could appreciate the depth and complexity of our challenges. For the promotion of friendly relations with the countries of the world, the basic necessity is to provide support for the exchange of visits of Heads of State and High level delegations. In this regard, our Ministry has been able to perform diplomatic relations as well as prepare necessary background papers of discussion topics in coordination with other relevant Ministries. We were able to make systematic arrangements for these visits to have a proper balance.
Q: Please tell me about the visits of the President and the State Counsellor during the two year term of this government.
A: Former President U Htin Kyaw paid friendly visits to Laos which assumed the ASEAN chairmanship in 2016, India, China, Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia and Japan. He also visited Russia to attend the ASEAN-Russia Summit, Mongolia to attend the Asia-Europe (ASEM) Summit Meeting, and Thailand to attend the Royal Cremation Ceremony of Thailand’s late King.
The State Counsellor also visited Thailand, China, the United States, Japan, Singapore, Italy, Vatican City, United Kingdom, Belgium (home of the European Union), India and Australia. In addition, she attended the 71st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the 28th and 29th ASEAN Summit Meetings and other related meetings in Laos, Outreach Summit between BRICS and BIMSTEC Partners in India, the Royal Golden Jubilee Celebrations of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddualah in Brunei Darussalam, the 30th and 31st ASEAN Summit Meeting and other related meetings in the Philippines, the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in China, the ASEAN-APEC Leaders’ Informal Dialogue in Vietnam, the 25th ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit and the celebration of the 69th Republic Day of India in India, and the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Australia.
Q: Please also tell us about the visits of foreign dignitaries to Myanmar.
A: Heads of State from Singapore, India, Lao PDR, the Philippines, Mongolia, Cambodia and Vietnam, and His Holiness Pope Francis visited Myanmar. Foreign Ministers from China, Italy, Canada, Japan, India, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia, Britain, Hungary, US, Norway, Ukraine, Luxembourg, Netherlands, France, Czech and Turkey also visited Myanmar. Other visits included senior officials from China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, European Union, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. Apart from these visits, there were over 50 visits from aboard. We were able to arrange all these visits to foster bilateral relations and cooperation.
Q: Please tell us about the benefits we gained from these friendly visits.
A: From these friendly visits we received assistance for development of the socio-economic life of the people. We also received loans, technical assistance and financial assistance. During the two years period of the government, the President made one visit and the State Counsellor made three visits to the People’s Republic of China.This reflects how much importance we place on our friendly relations with China. The State Counsellor visited China in November 2017 to attend the Communist Party of China – CPC in Dialogue with World Political Parties High-Level Meeting as a special guest which consolidated the friendship between the leaders of both countries.
The Agreement whereby China granted RMB Yuan (1) billion for socio-economic development and the Peace process is one result of the friendly visits.
The mechanism of (2+2) consultations between the Foreign Ministry and Defence Ministry of both countries were held three times. These consultations have assisted in maintaining peace and stability along the border areas, China’s constructive support for Myanmar’s peace process and the joint settlement of border issues.
At the same time the President paid
a visit to India, which is one of the important neighbouring as his first
goodwill visit to a non-ASEAN country. The State Counsellor also visited India
twice within the two-year tenure of the Government thereby fostering closer
relations between the two countries and also enhancing increased cooperation
with India.
The State Counsellor’s first
goodwill visit was to Thailand. During the visit, she discussed matters relating
to the protection and promotion of the interests of Myanmar workers. There were
also exchanges of visits between the leaders of Myanmar and Viet Nam. Myanmar’s
bilateral relations with Viet Nam have been elevated to the level of
Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
The State Counsellor visited Brunei
Darussalam and both leaders exchanged views on the enhancement of bilateral
cooperation. Both the President and the State Counsellor paid official visits
to Japan. These visits served as an impetus in uplifting the traditional bonds
of friendship and enhancing bilateral cooperation between Myanmar and Japan.
During the State Counsellor’s visit
to Japan, agreement was reached for Japan to give Japanese Yen 40 billion
during five years for Myanmar’s transition to democracy and national
reconciliation. Agreement was also reached for the Japanese government and
Japanese private sector investments to provide during a period of five years
Japanese Yen 800 billion for balanced development of urban and rural areas.
The State Counsellor paid official
visits to the Headquarters of the European Union, Belgium, Italy, the Holy See,
and the United Kingdom in May 2017 aiming at fostering friendly relations and
cooperation with partner countries that have consistently supported Myanmar’s
cause for democracy.
The challenges and difficulties
encountered by Myanmar during its democratic transition as well as matters
relating to Rakhine State were cordially discussed during these visits.
Furthermore, as the Government’s
endeavours to promote internal peace and national reconciliation processes and
matters related to national development were discussed and explained, it
resulted in better understanding towards Myanmar. In addition, the
establishment of diplomatic relations between Myanmar and the Holy See was
announced during the visit to the Vatican City. As a result, Pope Francis paid
his first state visit to Myanmar in November 2017 which was a historic
milestone.
Q: Could you tell us some of MOFA’s
contributions towards promoting international relations?
A: Myanmar was able to expand
diplomatic relations with the countries of the world and to establish
mechanisms for consultations at the Foreign Minister level with friendly
countries. During the two year period it was able to establish diplomatic ties
with Malta, Ecuador, Marshall Islands, Liberia, Guinea, Seychelles and the Holy
See.
At present, Myanmar has established
diplomatic relations with 121 countries out of 193 countries. In the coming
years it will endeavor to promote the development of friendly relations and
cooperation with Caribbean and Latin American countries.
With a view to fostering bilateral
relations and cooperation between Myanmar and other friendly countries, Myanmar
has been able to establish Foreign Office Consultations Mechanisms with
countries such as Australia, Switzerland, Estonia, New Zealand and Columbia.
Myanmar is also annually holding Human Rights Dialogue with Japan and the
European Union. We have conducted partnership talks with the United States of
America. We believe that the conduct of such foreign affairs related
discussions on an annual basis would be very beneficial to improve relations
and cooperation with respective countries.
Q: How did MOFA respond to
challenges encountered in the international arena?
A: Since the current Government
took office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has given high priority to address
the issue of Rakhine that has recently created enormous challenges to Myanmar
in the international arena. The Government also established the Advisory
Commission on Rakhine State headed by Dr. Kofi Annan in order to find a durable
and sustainable solution for the Rakhine issue incorporating both local and
international perspectives.
Because of these developments, the
draft resolution which had been tabled yearly on the situation of human rights
in Myanmar was stopped and the United States lifted its economic sanctions
imposed on Myanmar in September 2016.
At this time when our international
relations was improving, ARSA terrorist attacks occurred once on 9 October 2016
and once on 25 August 2017 to draw the attention of the world on the Rakhine
issue. As a result refugees left their homes which resulted in Myanmar having
to suffer misunderstandings, criticisms and pressures for another round.
Therefore we had to face the potential danger of our national interest and our sovereignty
being threatened.
On 19 September 2017, the State
Counsellor invited diplomats to Nay Pyi Taw and gave a speech on the Rakhine
issue. Also, a delegation led by Vice President U Henry Van Thio attended the
72nd UNGA where he delivered a policy speech. In the UN Security Council, an
attempt was made to pass a resolution regarding the Rakhine issue. National
Security Advisor U Thaung Tun, who was also the alternate leader of the Myanmar
delegation and the Myanmar Permanent Representative to the UN responded,
explained and made a rebuttal at the UNSC. We were able to prevent this draft
resolution from being adopted. At the 2017 UN General Assembly, OIC tabled a
draft resolution on Myanmar but the Myanmar Permanent Representative protested,
made a rebuttal and demanded that the resolution should be adopted by voting,
not by consensus. And also, in December 2017, at the UN Human Rights Council,
Geneva, IOC called a special meeting tabled a draft resolution on Myanmar on
the Rakhine issue; Myanmar had to try and approach friendly nations for
adoption by voting instead of by consensus.
The Union Minister for
International Cooperation himself attended the regular annual meeting of Human
Rights Council High Level Segment and gave a briefing on the Rakhine affairs.
This year, a delegation led by Union Minister U Thaung Tun from the Office of
the Union Government held a side event, and gave a detailed explanation for a
better understanding of Myanmar. At the Human Rights Council, discussions on
the EU draft resolution on Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar were held, and
the Permanent Representative of Myanmar pointed out paragraphs that threatened
the sovereignty and categorically rejected the motion.
Q. For the Rakhine issue, what kind
of efforts have you made on the regional front?
A. For the implementation of Dr.
Kofi Anan’s Advisory Commission on Rakhine, the MOFA has also cooperated and
coordinated with the Implementation Advisory Committee which was formed and
headed by Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai. From among the advice given by Kofi Anan,
matters related to relations with Bangladesh and countries in the region
including ASEAN are being implemented. On 23 November, an agreement was signed
between Bangladesh and Myanmar for the verification and acceptance of displaced
people from Rakhine. The Foreign Ministry continued negotiations with
Bangladesh to establish a Joint Working Unit and the TOR (Terms of Reference)
was signed on 19 December 2017 and on 16 February 2018 a “Physical Arrangement”
for repatriation of displaced persons was signed.
At the regional level, the State
Counselor explained about Myanmar’s transition to democracy, efforts to achieve
peace and national reconciliation, including the Rakhine issue and the complex
and sensitive nature of the challenges being faced in November 2017 at the
ASEAN Leaders Conference in Manila, and in March 2018 at the ASEAN-Australia
Special Summit.
The State Counsellor, when
receiving Foreign Ministers from USA, Japan and UK, and other high level
foreign representatives, gave explanatory briefings to continue support for
Myanmar’s endeavors for the success of the transition to democracy, Peace and
National Reconciliation and also about the situation in Rakhine.
On February 2018, the Union
Minister for International Cooperation himself, in a separate meeting in
Singapore, gave explanations to ASEAN Foreign Ministers informally, on
developments in Rakhine State and repatriation of displaced persons. After the
conclusion of the meeting, in a statement released by the ASEAN Chairman, he
indicated in a constructive manner that the ASEAN Ministers supported the
efforts of Myanmar Government to promote harmony and reconciliation between the
communities. The Foreign Ministry has established an official website and
social network pages and has continuously disseminated “facts on the ground”
regarding the Rakhine situation.
Q: During the term of this
government, what is being done for protecting the interests of Myanmar
nationals abroad?
A. The Foreign Ministry and Myanmar
Embassies, Missions and Consulates are now practicing a new approach called
“people-centered diplomacy”. Protecting the interests of Myanmar nationals and
former Myanmar citizens living abroad have been our foremost concern. In order
for Myanmar nationals to participate and assist in socio-economic developments,
necessary help were given including assistance to facilitate entry into the
country. Visa requirements for social visits were relaxed to facilitate
re-entry of former Myanmar citizens living abroad.
Our embassies, in spite of man
power limitations and financial restrictions, are conducting negotiations on
cooperating with the corresponding host country regarding benefits of our
migrant workers and for illegal migrants to get permission to work legally in the
respective countries.
In Thailand, in order to provide
more assistance to migrants, we have increased the number of embassy personnel
and centers to issue identity cards. Assistance is being given to workers
abroad to get compensations for death and injuries in foreign countries.
Assistance is also provided for returnee workers who are facing difficulties
paying for airfares. Also, we have effectively brought back Myanmar fishermen
incarcerated for various reasons who were released after serving time.
Q. Please also tell us what is
being done by the Foreign Ministry with regards to demarcating the borders with
neighboring countries?
A. The State Counsellor wishes to
finish the unfinished border matters done by previous governments so that
future generations will inherit good legacies. She has given directions to give
priority to border demarcation matters, especially at this time when relations
with neighboring countries are very good.
During the State Counsellor’s visit
to Thailand on June 2016, she mutually agreed to speed up the interrupted
demarcation of borders between the two countries.
In the Naga region of the
Myanmar-India border, in order to stop disputes between border pillars 145 and
146 due to indistinct delineation, more defined distinct borders pillars were
erected jointly on March 2017. The Friendship Bridge that crossed Myanmar-Laos
was built and an agreement was reached at the meeting of Foreign Ministers of
the two countries to mark and record the border demarcating line of the river
on the bridge.
A protocol was signed in November
2017 in reference to agreement 1998 to demarcate land on the northern part of
Naf river. The appendix to the 2007 Myanmar-Banngladesh-Naf River Border
Agreement was also signed on that date.
Q. I would like to know what has
been done to upgrade the skills of diplomatic personnel?
A. To implement our foreign policy,
we need sharp, bright, and good diplomats. To develop our human resources, our
Ministry and other Ministries are giving training courses and workshops. 12
workshops and courses in diplomatic skills, English language and foreign
affairs were given by local and foreign invited experts to officers and
clerical staff. Courses and training of 50 newly recruited officers were given
on advanced diplomatic skills and in international affairs. 3 Basic Diplomatic
Skills training courses were conducted for 603 trainees.
Q. Do you have any plans to enable
your diplomatic personnel to perform their duties more effectively?
A. For Myanmar diplomatic personnel
to carry out their duties to the fullest and concentrate and function smoothly,
Embassies, Permanent Missions and 13 Consulates in foreign countries,
diplomatic personnel and their families were given opportunities to obtain
health insurances and now, altogether 19 out of 44 missions have health
insurances for the staffs and families. Due to instructions by the State
Counsellor, by the 2018-2019 fiscal year education allowance amounting to two
thirds of the tuition fee will be covered for the children of embassy staff
between the ages of 5 to 18. This is a unique improvement.
State-owned old buildings of
Myanmar Embassies in foreign countries are being renovated, rebuilt and
beautified to enhance their beauty to be in line with diplomatic standards and
dignity.
Q. We have noticed that you have
established The Ministry of International Cooperation. Would you care to
elaborate on this?
A. Since the civilian government
took office, international community has shown interest to increase assistance
and support. Exchange of visits from foreign countries has soared up sharply.
As a result, our international relations duties have increased. It is also a
time when we are facing the highest level of criticism and pressure in the
international arena. In order to be able to work with international
organizations in all sectors, we need to coordinate with the Foreign Ministry
in line with the foreign policy. Together with the Foreign Ministry, in our
actions to deal with international issues, we are acting not only from the
political perspective but also from the economic perspective. Thus our Ministry
was established on 23 November 2017.
However, we are cooperating and
working closely under the roof of the Foreign Ministry, and also functioning
with the budget of the Foreign Ministry and its staff structure. The Ministry
for International Cooperation is dealing not only with subjects under the
International Organizations and Economic Departments, it is also working in
regional and sub-regional matters of ASEAN, BIMSTEC, and the Mekong Cooperation
Programmes, and economic relations with foreign countries, giving priority to
all these matters.
Q. Please tell us about the
activities and involvement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in regional
organizations?
A. Myanmar is enthusiastically and
actively participating in regional organizations such as ASEAN, BIMSTEC,
Greater Mekong Cooperation Program, Irrawaddy-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic
Strategy, Mekong- Lancang Cooperation Program, Mekong-Japan Cooperation, Mekong-Korea
Cooperation Plan, and the Lower Mekong Initiative.
In participating in these
activities Myanmar is not only looking for the interests of its citizens, but
it is also working for regional interests.
On 10 January 2018, Vice President
U Myint Swe led a delegation and attended the 2nd Mekong-Lancang Cooperation
Leaders Meeting held in Phnom Penh, and as a result,US $2.4 million was
received for 2017 for development of 10 projects under Mekong-Lancang
Cooperation Program. Myanmar is also participating in the 7-member BIMSTEC
Cooperation Framework. In 2016, a delegation headed by State Counsellor
attended the BIMSTEC-BRICS Outreach Summit and the BIMSTEC Leaders Retreat held
in Goa, India. In August 2017, a delegation headed by the Minister of State for
Foreign Ministry attended the 15th Ministerial Meeting held in Kathmandu,
Nepal.
In November 2017, our Ministry
successfully hosted a Meeting for ASEM Foreign Ministers consisting of 51
countries and 2 organizations. This shows the capabilities Myanmar diplomats.
A separate informal meeting was
held to give a briefing about the Rakhine issue. As a result, we were able to
enhance the understanding of the international community about the delicate and
complex nature of Myanmar’s challenges.
Q. In conclusion, what are your
future plans in foreign relations? Is there anything you would like to add?
A. Regarding the Rakhine issue, the
international community, instead of criticizing and fostering hatred, it should
adopt a constructive approach in solving the problem and avoid making the
problem worse. Also, we would like to urge to focus more on solving the
problem.
In the international arena in order
to overcome the challenges we are facing, we will work hard to show the
developments on the ground with the support of our friendly nations who
understand the complex and sensitive nature of our country’s challenges. We
will continue to strive hard with the united strength of our ethnic brothers
and sisters.
(Translated by Kyaw Mying and
Alexdar Chu)
Ref; The Global New Light of
Myanmar
No comments:
Post a Comment