Maldives calls upon the authorities of Myanmar to intensify its efforts to counter incitement to hatred that leads to violence

19 January 2017, Kuala Lumpur: Minister of Foreign Affairs H.E. Dr Mohamed Asim has called on the Authorities of Myanmar to intensify its efforts to counter incitement to hatred that leads to violence. Minister Asim made this call while speaking today at the Extraordinary Meeting of the OIC Foreign Ministers on the Situation of Rohingya Muslims.

In his statement, Minister Asim further expressed grave concerns over the reported human rights violations and appealed to the Government of Myanmar for urgent action in providing assistance to the affected communities. He also urged neighboring countries to extend assistance to those fleeing the conflict.

The statement while underscoring President Yameen’s Government’s deep concern on the issue, expressed its firm belief in promoting and protecting the inherent dignity of all human beings.

Emphasizing on the rising tendency of Islamophobia around the world, Minister Asim in his statement reiterated the call on the international community to take action to stop discriminations and apartheid policies against Muslim and other minority groups. “International organisations, such as the OIC and the United Nations, as well as the national governments, all have a shared responsibility to ensure that the rights of Muslims are protected wherever they are”, said Minister Asim.

Minister Asim is leading the Maldives delegation at this Extraordinary Meeting of the OIC council of Foreign Ministers. The Maldives delegation also includes Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr. Ibrahim Shaheeb, Ambassador of the Republic of Maldives to Malaysia H.E. Mr. Mohamed Fahmy Hassan, Deputy Ambassador of Maldives to Malaysia Ms. Ghaniya Abdul Ghafoor and Assistant Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ms. Moomina Ibrahim.