Foreign ministers representing the Group of Seven (G7) nations have issued a collective call for the establishment of conditions conducive to the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of Rohingya refugees. Emphasizing the importance of justice and accountability for atrocities against Rohingya and other ethnic groups, they underscored the imperative for a sustainable repatriation process.
In a joint statement, the G7 ministers reiterated their plea for all countries to prevent the flow of arms and dual-use materiel, including jet fuel, into Myanmar. They urged the Myanmar military to halt violence immediately, release arbitrarily detained individuals, including elected leaders, and engage in inclusive dialogue to pave the way for a genuine democratic transition.
Furthermore, the G7 nations stressed the necessity for the Myanmar military to uphold human rights and international humanitarian law, refrain from forced labor, and ensure unhindered humanitarian access to displaced persons.
The ministers affirmed their support for ASEAN’s initiatives to facilitate a credible and inclusive process, emphasizing the swift implementation of the Five-Point Consensus. They highlighted the importance of implementing UN Security Council resolution 2669 and endorsed the UN’s enhanced engagement in the crisis, including through the newly appointed Special Envoy on Myanmar and the designation of a Resident Coordinator in the country.
Expressing solidarity with the people of Myanmar in their pursuit of peace and democracy, the G7 reiterated condemnation of the military coup. They denounced ongoing military attacks on civilian infrastructure, human rights violations, and the dire humanitarian situation, particularly affecting vulnerable groups.
Additionally, the G7 ministers condemned the recent enforcement of Myanmar’s 2010 conscription law by the military regime, warning against the repercussions of forced recruitment on exacerbating violence and triggering mass displacement to neighboring countries.
