Myanmar government invited diplomats from neighboring countries, ASEAN member states and representatives from UN agencies to visit Rakhine State on 10-11 September. H.E. Mr. Chen Hai, Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar, joined the visit at the invitation. Deputy Union Minister for the Office of the State Counsellor U Khin Maung Tin and Rakhine State Minister for Security and Border Affairs U Min Than accompanied the delegation.

      In Sittwe, the delegation met with Hindu women and members from the Muslim community who returned of their own volition. The latter briefed the delegation on the arrangements made by the Myanmar government after they voluntarily returned from Bangladesh. They hoped that the Myanmar government will continue to provide food and housing to them and support their safety and employment. Deputy Union Minister U Khin Maung Tin said that Myanmar government is committed to promoting the repatriation of displaced persons. Preparations have been made to ensure a smooth and sustainable repatriation. The Myanmar side has made proper arrangements to welcome the voluntary returnees and will continue to make active arrangements for housing, employment and the issuance of NVC cards. The Myanmar side hopes that the international community will play an active role in promoting the repatriation and resettlement.

      Ambassador Chen Hai said to Deputy Minister U Khin Maung Tin and representative from the international organizations that China is a friendly neighbor of Myanmar and Bangladesh. We hope that the Rakhine issue can be properly resolved. China proposed a three-phase solution to the Rakhine Issue, which received positive responses from both Myanmar and Bangladesh. China appreciated Myanmar's efforts in promoting the repatriation of displaced persons and spoke highly of the quick impact projects jointly carried out by the UN agencies and Myanmar government. We hope that all parties can work hand in hand to promote the repatriation and resettlement. China will continue to play a constructive role in this regard.