Myanmar response

Re: “Let the U.N. in,” Editorial, July 16

Myanmar declines to accept the U.N. Human Rights Council’s International Fact-Finding Mission not because of its unwillingness to cooperate with the United Nations. Myanmar has been cooperating steadfastly with the U.N.

The situation in Rakhine state is extremely complex and delicate.

There are two communities, which are deeply divided.

As both communities are minorities, living with fear and deep-rooted mistrust for each other, we need time and space to change the situation through education and development.

The Myanmar government is trying to bring about a sustainable solution that will lead to peace, stability and development for all.

Myanmar already has a national-level investigation commission as well as an advisory commission on Rakhine state led by [former U.N. Secretary-General] Kofi Annan. The interim report in March 2017 has more than 40 specific recommendations, ranging from humanitarian assistance to development.

A significant number are in line with the government’s own plan to develop Rakhine state.

Myanmar cannot welcome the fact-finding mission because it will exacerbate the situation, adding more harm than help to the young democratic nation.

Aung Soe Win Los Angeles The writer is consul general of Myanmar in Los Angeles.