Senior UN official arrives in Myanmar for five-day visit

A top United Nations official arrived today in Myanmar for a five-day visit during which he will meet with a number of Government officials and other key actors.

The visit by Vijay Nambiar is at the invitation of the Government, according to a statement issued by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s spokesperson.

It comes amid ongoing dialogue between the Government and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, the pro-democracy leader and Nobel laureate who was held under house arrest for much of the past 20 years before being released last November, as well as the negotiations between the authorities and ethnic groups.

It also follows the release earlier this month of a significant number of detainees, a move welcomed by Mr. Ban, who said he hoped the Government will ensure the early release of all political prisoners, consistent with its commitment to uphold fundamental rights and the rule of law.

A new Government was established in Myanmar seven months ago, and more recently the country has received a series of high-level bilateral visits. In addition, President Thein Sein has made a pledge for Myanmar to “catch up with the changing world.”

Mr. Nambiar, who is Mr. Ban’s Chief of Staff as well as Special Adviser for Myanmar, will hold meetings in Naypyitaw and Yangon with the Government, as well as political parties, civil society organizations and other key players, in carrying out the Secretary-General’s good offices mandate.