Myanmar solely responsible for situation along Bangladesh border: Diplomats

Myanmar is solely responsible for the situation along the border with Bangladesh, observed the diplomats of the member states of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations).

They also have expressed concern that the ongoing crisis in Myanmar may incite regional instability.

The top diplomats of seven member states of ASEAN said this at a press briefing organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the state guest house, Padma on Monday.

During the press meet, the ambassadors stated that peace and stability of Myanmar is depending on the initiatives taken by Naypyidaw.

Head of the missions of Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Philippines and Vietnam were present at the briefing. However, the Myanmar ambassador to Bangladesh was not there.

During the briefing, Bangladesh acting foreign secretary rear admiral (retired) Md. Khurshed Alam information the audiences about the deteriorating situation along the Ghumdhum border in Bangladesh as a result of the armed conflict between the Myanmar Army and Arakan Army, a rebel armed force.

The acting foreign secretary conveyed Bangladesh’s deep concerns on the recent incidents of mortar shells from Myanmar falling and exploding inside Bangladesh territory, indiscriminate aerial firings, human fatalities and serious injuries, damages to the properties and livelihood of the people in the bordering areas to the ASEAN envoys.

Later, he talked to journalists about the discussion.

Responding to a question regarding Myanmar blaming Arakan Army and ARSA for mortar shells landing in Bangladesh, the acting foreign secretary said the Myanmar side always makes the same claims.

“We sought their (diplomats) help so that Myanmar can’t take advantage of creating instability in the region,” said the acting foreign secretary.

Media reports said Dhaka informed the diplomats about the situation that emerged along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border during the discussion. 

Besides, Dhaka also sought assistance from all over the world, including the ASEAN member states for a peaceful resolution of the crisis.

About reactions from the diplomats of the seven ASEAN countries to Bangladesh’s request, the  report said Bangladesh has explained its own stance to the diplomat. After that, several countries said on behalf of ASEAN that Bangladesh is on the right track so far.