G7 condemns Myanmar coup, use of force against protesters
The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven most developed countries on Tuesday‘ firmly condemned’ the deadly use of force by Myanmar’s military against people protesting a coup. “We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union firmly condemn violence committed by Myanmar’s security forces against peaceful protests,” the joint statement from the G7 read.
According to Sputnik, at least two protesters have died after the junta seized power in Myanmar on February 1. Tens of thousands have rallied across the country to demand the release of the elected leaders, prompting a military crackdown.The group offered condolences for the loss of life and called for the Myanmar military to exercise “utmost respect and respect international law”.
The group has also condemned the intimidation of those opposing the coup and raised concerns at the crackdown on freedom of expression, including through the internet blackout and draconian changes to the law that repress free speech. The G7 foreign ministers reiterated their call for the immediate and unconditional release of those detained arbitrarily, including State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and President Win Myint and continue to stand with the people of Myanmar in their quest for democracy and freedom.