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New Zealand congratulates Mr Quintana on his appointment as Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar. We look forward to supporting his efforts in engaging with the Myanmar Government on human rights.
In October and again in March, New Zealand joined calls in the Council for Myanmar to implement the recommendations in the report of the previous Special Rapporteur. These included the release of all political prisoners; the promotion of an all-inclusive national reconciliation process; cessation of hostilities in conflict areas; and continued cooperation with the ILO.
New Zealand remains concerned about the human rights situation, particularly in the period since Cyclone Nargis. The Government has responded slowly and reluctantly to offers of humanitarian assistance and specialist personnel. We hope the Government’s announcement that it will allow international relief workers into the cyclone-affected region will be a real commitment. We urge full co-operation with relief efforts and adherence to the principles of equality and non-discrimination in aid distribution.
We call on the Government to work towards achieving universal human rights in Myanmar. This goal will require engagement by the international community, including Myanmar’s neighbours and ASEAN states.
New Zealand urges that Myanmar should engage United Nations officials on a regular and sustained basis. They must be provided with access to all relevant parties in-country. In this context, Mr Quintana should be allowed to visit Myanmar at the earliest opportunity in fulfilment of his UN-mandated responsibilities.
New Zealand deplores the recent decision to extend the house detention of opposition leader, Aung San Suu Kyi. This decision affronts core human rights principles. We call for her immediate and unconditional release, along with other political detainees.
Thank you Mr President.
