"I will be present at the meeting of the ASEAN Retreat in Yagoon, which primarily will discuss developments in Rakhine State," said Foreign Minister Retno in a press statement before leaving Jakarta for Rangoon Sunday morning.
The ASEAN foreign ministers will meet in a retreat format on Monday in Yangon, Myanmar.
"This meeting is a good step that provides an opportunity for ASEAN, as a big family, to constructively discuss the situation in Rakhine State," said Retno.
According to the foreign minister, at the meeting of the ASEAN Retreat, the Indonesian government will emphasize the importance to quickly restore security and stability in Rakhine State.
The Indonesian government will also continue to push for respect and protection of human rights for all communities in Rakhine State, including the Muslim minority.
In addition, the Government of Indonesia will propose that access for humanitarian aid should continue to be expanded, including access for delivery of humanitarian assistance from ASEAN.
"ASEAN has the ability to help a fellow member who is facing challenges. Indonesia expects that ASEAN countries will concretely support the efforts of Myanmar to create more stable and conducive situation in Rakhine State," said the foreign minister.
The visit to Myanmar of Foreign Minister Retno is the second in a month, aiming to discuss the developments of conditions in Rakhine State.
Earlier on November 6, 2016, the foreign minister met with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in Naypyidaw to convey the concerns of Indonesia against the situation in Rakhine State and to discuss steps that could be taken by the Government of Myanmar.
Such steps include opening up humanitarian access and invite ASEAN countries to support inclusive development in Rakhine State.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2016
