We have expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in the Rakhine State. We are fully aware that it has deep historical roots and we acknowledge Myanmar’s efforts towards resolving the issues faced in the Rakhine State.

These efforts included Myanmar’s setting up of an Advisory Commission on Rakhine State led by former UN Secretary-General Dr. Kofi Annan and establishment of a ministerial-level committee to ensure that the recommendations of the Commission are implemented expeditiously.

ASEAN Leaders have been briefed about these efforts during the recently concluded 31st ASEAN Summit, and ASEAN is committed to assist Myanmar in implementing the Advisory Commission’s recommendations.

The issue in the Rakhine State is a complex one; and we believe that isolation and censure would only add to the difficulty the people there are now facing.

This explains the vote of the Philippines in the UN resolution.