Myanmar allows UN agencies in Rakhine state

People from Rakhine state flee into Bangladesh (Photo: AFP/VNA)

Hanoi (VNA) – Myanmar allowed representatives of United Nations (UN) agencies to come to the country’s northern state of Rakhine on September 28.

Speaking with reporters, Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson of the UN Secretary General, expressed his hope that the Myanmar Government-sponsored trip will be a breakthrough for rendering humanitarian aid to the region.

Earlier, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said UN agencies were unable to distribute aid to people in Rakhine state since conflict broke out on August 25, when militants launched attacks on police posts in the state.

The UN estimated that about 480,000 Rohingya people had fled into Bangladesh over fear of violence. Meanwhile, nearly 800,000 people are taking shelters along the border.

The UN has appealed for humanitarian aid for 700,000 people.

A meeting of the Security Council on September 28 will discuss the current situation in Myanmar. The Global New Light newspaper of Myanmar reported that the Government will manage the rebuilding of villages in conflict areas.-VNA