Myanmar expects Annan-led commission to help resolve Rakhine issue

Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi said on Monday that she expected the advisory commission on Rakhine state, led by former UN secretary-general Kofi Annan, can root out the Rakhine problems.

Suu Kyi made the remarks when meeting with Annan at the National Reconciliation and Peace Center in Yangon.

She the commission is expected to find a way to heal the wounds arising from the regional conflicts, expecting a fair assessment of the local situation.

Annan expressed his confidence that the commission can assist the people of Rakhine to share the common destiny to a peaceful and prosperous future.

Annan arrived here on Saturday for a week-long visit, accompanied by two other members.

As a part of his visit, Annan will travel to Rakhine state.

The visit came more than a week after Myanmar State Counselor's Office announced on Aug. 24 that a nine-member advisory commission on Rakhine state was formed and chaired by Annan to resolve the protracted and complex Rakhine regional issue.

The nine-member commission comprise three foreign and six national experts.

The commission will hear the views of all relevant stakeholders, international experts and foreign dignitaries to find the best possible solution to prevailing problems.

It will also undertake assessments and make recommendations by focusing on conflict prevention, humanitarian assistance, rights and reconciliation, institution building and promotion of development of Rakhine state.

However, the commission has been facing opposition from the local Arakan National Party for inclusion of foreigners.

Rakhine state was hit by a deadly communal riot in 2012, and a state of emergency imposed on the state was lifted on March 28, days before the new government took office as the local security situation improved. Endit