“I strongly condemn the coup carried out by the Myanmar military on February 1st.
The elections of November 2020 were an important step in the democratic transition of Myanmar and clear expression of the desire of the Myanmar people for a democratic future.
The actions taken last night move in the opposite direction and do nothing to tackle the public health, security or economic issues facing the people of Myanmar.
I call for the wishes of the people of Myanmar to be respected by accepting the results of the November 2020 General Election.
I further condemn the detention of political leaders, including State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and President Win Myint, and call for their immediate release.
It is important that the response within Myanmar to yesterday’s actions remain peaceful.
I endorse the statements issued by the HRVP Borrell and together with EU members will closely monitor developments in Myanmar in the coming days.
The Embassy of Ireland in Bangkok has reached out to registered Irish citizens in Myanmar. I would advise Irish citizens in Myanmar to stay safe and avoid crowds or demonstrations.
Citizens in Myanmar with concerns should contact the Embassy on +66 2 016 1360.”
ENDS
Press Office
1 February 2021
