US President Barack Obama has called on his Myanmar counterpart Thein Sein to exert efforts to ensure an inclusive and credible election in 2015.

During their telephone talks on October 30, the US leader applauded the Myanmar Government’s commitment to the peace process, urging Nay Pyi Taw to make every effort to conclude a national ceasefire and protect the rights of minorities.

He also stressed the importance of addressing tensions in Rakhine State, where violence erupted in 2012 between Buddhists and Rohingya Muslims, killing at least 200 people.

Obama also talked over the phone with opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, during which he emphasised the need for all parties to join the general election, which is scheduled for late October or early November next year.

The talks took place one day before President U Thein Sein’s unprecedented meeting with political and military leaders.

Obama is paying his second visit to Myanmar in mid-November to attend two regional summits there.-VNA