UN Secretary-General's joint press encounter with Foreign Adviser of Bangladesh [includes Q&A]

Humanitarian aid inside Myanmar creates the conditions for that return to be triumphant. That is why one of our discussions was about the possibility, if the circumstances allow, of channelling humanitarian aid from Bangladesh. But that is obviously a matter that would require the authorisation and cooperation of the parties to the conflict.

Question: I’m from the Financial Express. The UN envoys who visited Dhaka recently told us they're in touch with all the crisis stakeholders, including the Arakan army. So, do you think that the Arakan army is more favourable in resolving the Rohingya crisis repatriation? My second question is, when you talk about the international pressure on Myanmar, do you suggest more vigorous sanctions like the Europeans do against Russia or elsewhere against Myanmar? Thank you.

Secretary-General: First of all, the Arakan army is an entity with which, I believe, a necessary dialogue must take place. We know that in the past, the relations between the Rakhine and the Rohingya communities were not easy, so I think it's essential. Soo engage the Arakan army to fully respect the rights of the Rohingya population in Rakhine. In relation to, the second question was?

Question: On sanctions against Myanmar.

Secretary-General: I believe that sanctions are one possible instrument. Of course, we would need, and it is difficult to obtain, Security Council approval for sanctions in relation to Myanmar. However, those sanctions not being possible; I think it's essential to increase the presence of all the neighbours in relation to Myanmar to guarantee that the fighting ends and that a way towards democracy is finally established.