EU wants to restore aid to Rakhine state

Urging on all sides to deescalate tensions, the European Commission today said it is committed to putting in all efforts to restore aid delivery in Rakhine state of Myanmar.

In a statement today, Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides said it is essential to try to prevent further deterioration.

"Unrestricted humanitarian access, including for aid workers, is critical to reach 350,000 vulnerable people in Rakhine State," he said. "They must be allowed to do their job to try to prevent the further deterioration of an already serious humanitarian situation."

Stylianides also called on all sides to deescalate tensions and fully observe international human rights law, and in particular to refrain from any violence against civilians.

Many Rohingya civilians are suffering greatly and are now fleeing the violence across the border into Bangladesh.

"They must not be turned back or deported. We greatly appreciate the hospitality extended by the government and people of Bangladesh for many decades," he said.

"The assistance and protection of the Bangladeshi authorities regarding these new refugees is crucial until the situation in Rakhine state has stabilised and they can safely return."