Thailand Welcomes Positive Developments in Myanmar

(22/02/2012)

As a close friend and neighbor, Thailand has welcomed all positive developments taking place in Myanmar, particularly the recent establishment of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission. Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that Thailand was pleased that the developments in Myanmar were being recognized by the international community, and it would continue to support Myanmar in the democratization and national reconciliation of the country. Mr. Win Mra, Chairman of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission, paid a visit to Thailand on 12-15 February 2012 and exchanged views with Mr. Sihasak. The visit was part of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission’s tour to meet the National Human Rights Commission in ASEAN member countries. Responding to questions from journalists at a joint pres conference, Mr. Win Mra said that the exact number of political prisoners in Myanmar is still not definite, given the fact that it is hard to differentiate between political prisoners and criminals. However, the figure the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission has at the moment is 128. Concerning the degree of power the council has, Mr. Win Mra said that the present government gives importance to issues of democracy and human rights, as could be seen in the recent establishment of this council. Regarding Thailand’s policy in closing temporary shelter areas for displaced persons from Myanmar and the need to return about 140,000 displaced persons to Myanmar, Mr. Win Mra said that he was not aware of the issue, but was ready to work on it. Mr. Sihasak added that before they return, Thailand must ensure that the situation is safe for them, as well as training and educating them in order to equip them with self-sufficient skills they may use upon returning back home. This is a fine example of the close cooperation between both countries.