Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant emphasized Canada’s efforts to continue collaborating closely with partners, including ASEAN, the international community and pro-democracy stakeholders, such as the NUG, in support of a democratic, peaceful and inclusive Myanmar in line with the aspirations of the Myanmar people. The Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant reiterated Canada’s condemnation of the Myanmar regime’s 2021 coup, the escalation of armed conflict and violence and the targeting of civilians, which have had far-reaching consequences for humanitarian action, human rights, politics and economics in the region. The Honourable Robert Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met virtually with Zin Mar Aung, representative of the National Unity Government (NUG) of Myanmar. July 13, 2023 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant expressed deep concern for those who have been affected by the ongoing conflict in Myanmar and for those who have been affected by the recent natural disaster Cyclone Mocha. He also expressed Canada’s steadfast resolve to call out ongoing human rights violations, the Rohingya crisis and the deterioration of the security situation in Myanmar, including restrictions on humanitarian access. Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant welcomed recent actions by the NUG to model its vision of an inclusive Myanmar and important commitments made at the UN Human Rights Council to take all the steps needed to protect civilians and ensure compliance with international law. Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant highlighted Canada’s unwavering support for the efforts of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and stressed the importance of fully implementing ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus. He also welcomed Resolution 2669 of the UN Security Council and spoke to Canada’s ongoing efforts to support justice, human rights and accountability in Myanmar, including through calls for UNSC referral and through Canada’s sanctions regime, including on aviation fuel, in close coordination with key international partners. Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant highlighted Canada’s ongoing commitment to responding to the Myanmar and Rohingya crises, including support for the efforts of the broad range of pro-democracy stakeholders in Myanmar who are advancing a democratic, peaceful and inclusive Myanmar—of which the NUG is an important voice.
