January 26, 2021
Union Minister for Labour, Immigration and Population U Thein Swe received Resident Representative of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Ms Hai Kyung Jun and Deputy Resident Representative Ms Yukiko Iriyama at the ministry in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning.
During the meeting, the Union Minister discussed the formation of committees on stability and development of the Rakhine State. He told the UNHCR officials that more budget was allocated for the Rakhine State than other regions/states. He added that the government has made efforts to improve infrastructures such as road connectivity, and provided better education and healthcare.
He told the UNHCR officials that Myanmar and Bangladesh are coordinating the repatriation and resettlement of the displaced persons in line with the MoU between the ministry and the UNDP/UNHCR.
The UNHCR delegation recently visited Hpa-an in the Kayin State and Sittway, Buthidaung and Maungtaw areas in the Rakhine State. The delegation met with local elders and teachers during their visit to Rakhine State, according to Ms Hai Kyung Jun.
Meanwhile, the UNDP and the UNHCR are carrying out Quick Impact Projects (QIPs).
The Union Minister said that the main requirement for regional development is security, and if the region is safe and stable, development works can be carried out efficiently.
The Union Minister stressed that the ministry is working hard in order for displaced persons to be able to go back to their places safely and with dignity. The Ministry is trying to strengthen security, education and healthcare for the displaced persons in line with the MoU.
He said that the government is making efforts for a balanced development plan for the entire country and focuses on stability and development in the Rakhine State. He said that if the government and international organizations, including the UN, can collaborate effectively, the residents will gain great benefits. — MNA (Translated by Maung Maung Swe)
