China is cosying up to Myanmar's military junta with an eye on its Indian Ocean ports. How is China gaining the upper hand in Myanmar? How should India respond? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: China using Myanmar to spy on India?

Seasoned journalist and regional analyst Bertil Lintner on Monday said that China wants instability in Myanmar and intends to continue being a significant controlling force in the affairs of the Southeast Asian nation.Wang Yi, the foreign minister of China, came in Myanmar on Saturday for a conference that the opposition claims is an affront to ongoing peace efforts. Wang Yi's goal for his first trip since the military took over is to protect Beijing's long-term interests.

Rights organisations claim that following the coup launched by the Myanmar military on February 1, 2021, the country's general human rights situation has gotten worse. Since the military took over, a widespread crackdown on millions of protesters has drawn criticism from a number of UN organisations, who claim that military activities in the country led to a number of war crimes.

Lintner told ANI that China is undoubtedly playing a role in Myanmar, but he wouldn't describe it as "helpful" in response to a query on what role China will be seeking to play in light of the ongoing instability in the nation. He contends that while the Chinese are playing games on various levels, they are also at ease with the military in charge.

“China is certainly playing a role in Myanmar, but I wouldn’t call it constructive….the Chinese feel comfortable with having the military in power, but they are also playing games on different levels, for instance by supporting the United Wa State Army which, in turn, sends Chinese-made weapons to Kokang, Shan and Palaung rebel armies,” he said.

“It’s often argued that the Chinese are interested in stability and abhor chaos. It may be true that they don’t want chaos, but a certain degree of instability, and then instability which they control, serves their long-term interests: to be a major, controlling player in Myanmar politics,” he added.

Southeast region specialists think that China's primary interest in Myanmar is geostrategic in post-coup Myanmar. It is not in India's interest to witness the formation of a Chinese client state on its eastern border, Lintner added, noting that Pakistan occupies enough of the country's western border.

India, which has a roughly 1,700-kilometer border with Myanmar, has already highlighted the necessity of Myanmar's restoration to democracy as soon as possible.

The need to put a halt to any violence and maintain peace and stability in the border regions was emphasised by the then-Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla during his visit in December of last year.

“Any developments in that country have a direct impact on India’s bordering regions. Peace and stability in Myanmar remain of utmost importance to India, specifically to its North Eastern Region,” he had said.

Lintner emphasised that it is in New Delhi's best interests for India to take a more active role in Myanmar.

He emphasised that Myanmar serves as India's entry point to Southeast Asian markets and that rebel groups that engage in cross-border insurgencies have safe havens on the Myanmar side of the border, from which they occasionally undertake raids into India.

"Having a Chinese client state on its eastern border is not in India's best interests, and India needs energy. A free and stable Myanmar might offer India hydroelectric power and gas," he said.

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Seasoned journalist and regional analyst Bertil Lintner on Monday said that China wants instability in Myanmar and intends to continue being a significant controlling force in the affairs of the Southeast Asian nation.

Seasoned journalist and regional analyst Bertil Lintner on Monday said that China wants instability in Myanmar and intends to continue being a significant controlling force in the affairs of the Southeast Asian nation.Wang Yi, the foreign minister of China, came in Myanmar on Saturday for a conference that the opposition claims is an affront to ongoing peace efforts. Wang Yi's goal for his first trip since the military took over is to protect Beijing's long-term interests. Rights organisations claim that following the coup launched by the Myanmar military on February 1, 2021, the country's general human rights situation has gotten worse. Since the military took over, a widespread crackdown on millions of protesters has drawn criticism from a number of UN organisations, who claim that military activities in the country led to a number of war crimes. Lintner told ANI that China is undoubtedly playing a role in Myanmar, but he wouldn't describe it as "helpful" in response to a query on what role China will be seeking to play in light of the ongoing instability in the nation. He contends that while the Chinese are playing games on various levels, they are also at ease with the military in charge. “China is certainly playing a role in Myanmar, but I wouldn’t call it constructive….the Chinese feel comfortable with having the military in power, but they are also playing games on different levels, for instance by supporting the United Wa State Army which, in turn, sends Chinese-made weapons to Kokang, Shan and Palaung rebel armies,” he said. “It’s often argued that the Chinese are interested in stability and abhor chaos. It may be true that they don’t want chaos, but a certain degree of instability, and then instability which they control, serves their long-term interests: to be a major, controlling player in Myanmar politics,” he added. Southeast region specialists think that China's primary interest in Myanmar is geostrategic in post-coup Myanmar. It is not in India's interest to witness the formation of a Chinese client state on its eastern border, Lintner added, noting that Pakistan occupies enough of the country's western border. India, which has a roughly 1,700-kilometer border with Myanmar, has already highlighted the necessity of Myanmar's restoration to democracy as soon as possible. The need to put a halt to any violence and maintain peace and stability in the border regions was emphasised by the then-Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla during his visit in December of last year. “Any developments in that country have a direct impact on India’s bordering regions. Peace and stability in Myanmar remain of utmost importance to India, specifically to its North Eastern Region,” he had said. Lintner emphasised that it is in New Delhi's best interests for India to take a more active role in Myanmar. He emphasised that Myanmar serves as India's entry point to Southeast Asian markets and that rebel groups that engage in cross-border insurgencies have safe havens on the Myanmar side of the border, from which they occasionally undertake raids into India. "Having a Chinese client state on its eastern border is not in India's best interests, and India needs energy. A free and stable Myanmar might offer India hydroelectric power and gas," he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China wants instability in Myanmar: Southeast Asia expert Bertil Lintner

On his first visit to Myanmar since the coup that brought about its unrest in 2021, China's foreign minister demanded that the junta hold discussions with its opponents. One of the few foreign supporters the Myanmar military has is Beijing, which provides it with weapons while refusing to call the takeover that toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's administration a coup.

China expects all parties in Myanmar to "adhere to rational consultation" and "strive to achieve political reconciliation," according to Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

According to a statement on the website of the foreign ministry, Wang also expressed to his counterpart Wunna Maung Lwin that "China genuinely wishes that Myanmar would be politically and socially stable."

Wang is taking part in a meeting of foreign ministers that has officials from Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam in attendance. This is Beijing's most high-profile visit to Myanmar since the putsch.

Following last week's statement that discussions between the military and deposed leader Suu Kyi to end the upheaval were "not impossible," the junta spokesperson made his remarks.

Concern from Myanmar's neighbours has led to a regional envoy's visit to attempt and jumpstart negotiations between the army and its opponents as a result of the country's increasing civil unrest.

Additionally, the isolated junta has become more dependent on friends like China and Russia as a result of sanctions placed by Western governments in the wake of the coup and a brutal crackdown on opposition.

A significant ethnic rebel group in Myanmar with strong ties to China demanded in May that the junta hold talks with the opposition to put a halt to the rising bloodshed, which has seen Chinese corporate interests targeted.

Beijing declared in April that it would support preserving Myanmar's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence "no matter how the situation develops."

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On his first visit to Myanmar since the coup that brought about its unrest in 2021, China's foreign minister demanded that the junta hold discussions with its opponents.

On his first visit to Myanmar since the coup that brought about its unrest in 2021, China's foreign minister demanded that the junta hold discussions with its opponents. One of the few foreign supporters the Myanmar military has is Beijing, which provides it with weapons while refusing to call the takeover that toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's administration a coup. China expects all parties in Myanmar to "adhere to rational consultation" and "strive to achieve political reconciliation," according to Foreign Minister Wang Yi. According to a statement on the website of the foreign ministry, Wang also expressed to his counterpart Wunna Maung Lwin that "China genuinely wishes that Myanmar would be politically and socially stable." Wang is taking part in a meeting of foreign ministers that has officials from Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam in attendance. This is Beijing's most high-profile visit to Myanmar since the putsch. Following last week's statement that discussions between the military and deposed leader Suu Kyi to end the upheaval were "not impossible," the junta spokesperson made his remarks. Concern from Myanmar's neighbours has led to a regional envoy's visit to attempt and jumpstart negotiations between the army and its opponents as a result of the country's increasing civil unrest. Additionally, the isolated junta has become more dependent on friends like China and Russia as a result of sanctions placed by Western governments in the wake of the coup and a brutal crackdown on opposition. A significant ethnic rebel group in Myanmar with strong ties to China demanded in May that the junta hold talks with the opposition to put a halt to the rising bloodshed, which has seen Chinese corporate interests targeted. Beijing declared in April that it would support preserving Myanmar's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence "no matter how the situation develops." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China urges Myanmar junta to hold talks with opponents

A UN expert has urged more pressure on the Junta government in Myanmar. Junta has shifted Suu Kyi to solitary confinement in the latest intimidation move according to the Human Rights Watch.

Myanmar: UN expert urges more pressure on Junta as it shifts Suu Kyi to solitary confinement

Myanmar's military junta has shifted Nobel laureate and former state councilor Aung San Suu Kyi to solitary confinement from house arrest. The announcement was made by junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun in a statement. She was shifted to solitary confinement on Wednesday (June 22).

Her future trial hearings would take place inside a courtroom within the prison compound, he added.

She was previously held in a&nbsp;house arrest at an undisclosed location. She left the premises only to attend hearings in a junta court.

Suu Kyi was in "strong spirits" after the transfer, a source with knowledge of the case told AFP on Thursday.

"She acts like before and is in strong spirits," said the source, who requested anonymity. "She is used to facing any kind of situation calmly."

A source with knowledge of the case said Suu Kyi's domestic staff and her dog had not accompanied her when she was moved on Wednesday, and that security around the prison compound was "tighter than before".

"Aung San Suu Kyi is in good health as far as we know," they added, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Suu Kyi will be provided with three female staff from inside the prison to look after her, said another source with knowledge of the matter, without specifying whether they would be convicts or prison wardens.

Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government was toppled by military junta in a coup on February 1, 2021. The military regime hasn detained thousands of pro-democracy protesters. Many of them are facing secret trials. Rights groups allege that these trials are politically motivated.

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Myanmar's military junta has shifted Nobel laureate and former state councilor Aung San Suu Kyi to solitary confinement from house arrest. The announcement was made by junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun in a statement.

Myanmar's military junta has shifted Nobel laureate and former state councilor Aung San Suu Kyi to solitary confinement from house arrest. The announcement was made by junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun in a statement. She was shifted to solitary confinement on Wednesday (June 22). Her future trial hearings would take place inside a courtroom within the prison compound, he added. She was previously held in a house arrest at an undisclosed location. She left the premises only to attend hearings in a junta court. Suu Kyi was in "strong spirits" after the transfer, a source with knowledge of the case told AFP on Thursday. "She acts like before and is in strong spirits," said the source, who requested anonymity. "She is used to facing any kind of situation calmly." A source with knowledge of the case said Suu Kyi's domestic staff and her dog had not accompanied her when she was moved on Wednesday, and that security around the prison compound was "tighter than before". "Aung San Suu Kyi is in good health as far as we know," they added, speaking on condition of anonymity. Suu Kyi will be provided with three female staff from inside the prison to look after her, said another source with knowledge of the matter, without specifying whether they would be convicts or prison wardens. Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government was toppled by military junta in a coup on February 1, 2021. The military regime hasn detained thousands of pro-democracy protesters. Many of them are facing secret trials. Rights groups allege that these trials are politically motivated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Aung San Suu Kyi shifted to solitary confinement in prison

The wife of pro-democracy figure Kyaw Min Yu, sentenced to be executed on the orders of Myanmar's ruling generals, says that if her husband dies he will take with him the beliefs he has carried throughout a life spent fighting dictatorship.

Kyaw Min Yu, better known as Jimmy, and former lawmaker and hip-hop artist Phyo Zeya Thaw are set to be the first people since 1988 to be executed judicially in Myanmar.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-calls-foreign-outrage-over-activists-death-sentence-reckless-and-interfering-485928">Myanmar calls foreign outrage over activists death sentence 'reckless and interfering'</a>

They were sentenced to death in January for treason and terrorism in a closed-doors trial, accused of helping militias to fight the army that seized power last year and unleashed a bloody crackdown on its opponents.

The military has not said when they would be hanged, but speculation is rife in Myanmar that the executions are imminent.

The planned executions have been strongly condemned abroad and two U.N. experts have called them a "vile attempt at instilling fear" among the people.

Kyaw Min Yu's wife, Nilar Thein, said her husband, a political prisoner for 18 years under Myanmar's last military dictatorship, was being made an example of for refusing to cooperate with his captors.

"He would never trade his political beliefs with anything. He will continue to stand by his beliefs," Nilar Thein, who is in hiding, told Reuters by phone.

"Ko Jimmy will continue to live in our hearts."

Watch |&nbsp;First judicial execution in decades: Myanmar to execute four people

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Kyaw Min Yu, 53, and Phyo Zeya Thaw, a 41-year-old ally of ousted Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi, lost their appeal earlier this month.

It is not clear how they pleaded in their trial, nor the extent of their alleged involvement in the resistance movement, which is fighting what it calls a "people's defensive war" against the junta.

Asked if Kyaw Min Yu was involved, his wife said she would not acknowledge the military's portrayal of him, but said the whole country was involved in a revolt, against the generals' "terrorist acts".

'Systematic Attack'

Several foreign governments, including the United States and France, and rights groups have fiercely criticised the planned executions.

"The world must not lose sight of the fact that these death sentences are being meted out in the context of the military murdering civilians nearly every day in its widespread and systematic attack on the people of Myanmar," said Tom Andrews, U.N. Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, and Morris Tidball-Binz, U.N. Special Rapporteur on extra-judicial summary or arbitrary executions.

The New York-based Human Rights Watch said it has documented 114 people sentenced to death in Myanmar since the February 2021 coup, in what it called secretive tribunals with "lightning convictions" aimed to chill dissent.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), appealed in a letter this month to junta leader Min Aung Hlaing not to carry out the executions, relaying deep concern among Myanmar's neighbours.

The junta has signalled it will not back down and has called Western criticism "reckless and interfering".&nbsp;

On Thursday, its spokesperson said the sentence was appropriate.

"Required actions are needed to be done in the required moments," Zaw Min Tun told a news conference.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/myanmar-junta-to-carry-out-countrys-first-judicial-executions-in-more-than-three-decades-484817">Myanmar junta to carry out country’s first judicial executions in more than three decades</a>

Phyo Zeya Thaw's wife said the two men were targeted because of their status among a youth movement that held months of anti-coup demonstrations last year. She said the decision to resume executions would be a test of international support for the opposition, and appealed for foreign intervention.

"The junta is trying to kill the revolution," Thazin Nyunt Aung told Reuters by phone from an undisclosed location.

"We have been fighting this revolution with the mindset that we have nothing but ourselves. Now, we have started to question whether we have the world with us or not," she said.

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The wife of pro-democracy figure Kyaw Min Yu, sentenced to be executed on the orders of Myanmar's ruling generals, says that if her husband dies he will take with him the beliefs he has carried throughout a life spent fighting dictatorship.

The wife of pro-democracy figure Kyaw Min Yu, sentenced to be executed on the orders of Myanmar's ruling generals, says that if her husband dies he will take with him the beliefs he has carried throughout a life spent fighting dictatorship. Kyaw Min Yu, better known as Jimmy, and former lawmaker and hip-hop artist Phyo Zeya Thaw are set to be the first people since 1988 to be executed judicially in Myanmar. Also read | Myanmar calls foreign outrage over activists death sentence 'reckless and interfering' They were sentenced to death in January for treason and terrorism in a closed-doors trial, accused of helping militias to fight the army that seized power last year and unleashed a bloody crackdown on its opponents. The military has not said when they would be hanged, but speculation is rife in Myanmar that the executions are imminent. The planned executions have been strongly condemned abroad and two U.N. experts have called them a "vile attempt at instilling fear" among the people. Kyaw Min Yu's wife, Nilar Thein, said her husband, a political prisoner for 18 years under Myanmar's last military dictatorship, was being made an example of for refusing to cooperate with his captors. "He would never trade his political beliefs with anything. He will continue to stand by his beliefs," Nilar Thein, who is in hiding, told Reuters by phone. "Ko Jimmy will continue to live in our hearts." Watch | First judicial execution in decades: Myanmar to execute four people Kyaw Min Yu, 53, and Phyo Zeya Thaw, a 41-year-old ally of ousted Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi, lost their appeal earlier this month. It is not clear how they pleaded in their trial, nor the extent of their alleged involvement in the resistance movement, which is fighting what it calls a "people's defensive war" against the junta. Asked if Kyaw Min Yu was involved, his wife said she would not acknowledge the military's portrayal of him, but said the whole country was involved in a revolt, against the generals' "terrorist acts". 'Systematic Attack' Several foreign governments, including the United States and France, and rights groups have fiercely criticised the planned executions. "The world must not lose sight of the fact that these death sentences are being meted out in the context of the military murdering civilians nearly every day in its widespread and systematic attack on the people of Myanmar," said Tom Andrews, U.N. Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, and Morris Tidball-Binz, U.N. Special Rapporteur on extra-judicial summary or arbitrary executions. The New York-based Human Rights Watch said it has documented 114 people sentenced to death in Myanmar since the February 2021 coup, in what it called secretive tribunals with "lightning convictions" aimed to chill dissent. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), appealed in a letter this month to junta leader Min Aung Hlaing not to carry out the executions, relaying deep concern among Myanmar's neighbours. The junta has signalled it will not back down and has called Western criticism "reckless and interfering". On Thursday, its spokesperson said the sentence was appropriate. "Required actions are needed to be done in the required moments," Zaw Min Tun told a news conference. Also read | Myanmar junta to carry out country’s first judicial executions in more than three decades Phyo Zeya Thaw's wife said the two men were targeted because of their status among a youth movement that held months of anti-coup demonstrations last year. She said the decision to resume executions would be a test of international support for the opposition, and appealed for foreign intervention. "The junta is trying to kill the revolution," Thazin Nyunt Aung told Reuters by phone from an undisclosed location. "We have been fighting this revolution with the mindset that we have nothing but ourselves. Now, we have started to question whether we have the world with us or not," she said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pleas for help as Myanmar awaits high-profile executions

Dozens of ethnic Rohingya refugees were dead or missing after a&nbsp;boat&nbsp;with about 90 people aboard, including children, capsized and sank in bad weather off the coast of&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;over the weekend, according to media reports.

More than 20 survivors were detained by authorities in&nbsp;Myanmar's Ayeyarwady region, the US funded Radio Free Asia reported, citing residents in the coastal district of Shwe Taung Yan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-one-million-displaced-in-myanmar-amid-violence-un-484453">Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency</a>

According to survivors, the&nbsp;boat, which was bound for Malaysia, ran into trouble within a couple of days after setting out from Sittwe in&nbsp;Myanmar's Rakhine State on May 19, the Ayeyarwaddy Times reported. So far, at least 14 bodies had been recovered, but more than 50 people were still missing, Radio Free Asia said.

There are only around 600,000 Rohingya Muslims left in&nbsp;Myanmar, a predominantly Buddhist country with a long history of military rule. Rohingya have been rendered as stateless by&nbsp;Myanmar, and as a result of past ethnic violence and persecution the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) estimates that 148,000 of them are displaced, with many living in camps.

A spokesman for the military government did not respond to a request for comment on the latest reported tragedy involving Rohingya perishing at sea in a bid to escape persecution in&nbsp;Myanmar.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar: Junta troops on a burning spree as 3-day raid turns violent

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More than 730,000 Rohingya fled to Bangladesh in 2017 to escape a military-led crackdown that UN investigators have said was carried out with "genocidal intent" and included mass killings and rapes.

Myanmar&nbsp;has denied widespread atrocities, framing the violence as a response to attacks by Rohingya militants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/myanmar-junta-to-carry-out-countrys-first-judicial-executions-in-more-than-three-decades-484817">Myanmar junta to carry out country’s first judicial executions in more than three decades</a>

The other main destination for Rohingya refugees has been Malaysia, a Muslim-majority country that is seen as sympathetic though they are not officially recognized there as refugees.

Some 630 Rohingya had attempted sea journeys across the Bay of Bengal between January to May this year, UNHCR said, noting women and children made up 60 per cent of the maritime crossings.

"The latest tragedy shows once again the sense of desperation being felt by Rohingya in&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;and in the region," Indrika Ratwatte, UNHCR’s Director for Asia and the Pacific, said in a statement.

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Dozens of ethnic Rohingya refugees were dead or missing after a boat with about 90 people aboard, including children, capsized and sank in bad weather off the coast of Myanmar over the weekend, according to media reports.

Dozens of ethnic Rohingya refugees were dead or missing after a boat with about 90 people aboard, including children, capsized and sank in bad weather off the coast of Myanmar over the weekend, according to media reports. More than 20 survivors were detained by authorities in Myanmar's Ayeyarwady region, the US funded Radio Free Asia reported, citing residents in the coastal district of Shwe Taung Yan. Also read | Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency According to survivors, the boat, which was bound for Malaysia, ran into trouble within a couple of days after setting out from Sittwe in Myanmar's Rakhine State on May 19, the Ayeyarwaddy Times reported. So far, at least 14 bodies had been recovered, but more than 50 people were still missing, Radio Free Asia said. There are only around 600,000 Rohingya Muslims left in Myanmar, a predominantly Buddhist country with a long history of military rule. Rohingya have been rendered as stateless by Myanmar, and as a result of past ethnic violence and persecution the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) estimates that 148,000 of them are displaced, with many living in camps. A spokesman for the military government did not respond to a request for comment on the latest reported tragedy involving Rohingya perishing at sea in a bid to escape persecution in Myanmar. Watch | Myanmar: Junta troops on a burning spree as 3-day raid turns violent More than 730,000 Rohingya fled to Bangladesh in 2017 to escape a military-led crackdown that UN investigators have said was carried out with "genocidal intent" and included mass killings and rapes. Myanmar has denied widespread atrocities, framing the violence as a response to attacks by Rohingya militants. Also read | Myanmar junta to carry out country’s first judicial executions in more than three decades The other main destination for Rohingya refugees has been Malaysia, a Muslim-majority country that is seen as sympathetic though they are not officially recognized there as refugees. Some 630 Rohingya had attempted sea journeys across the Bay of Bengal between January to May this year, UNHCR said, noting women and children made up 60 per cent of the maritime crossings. "The latest tragedy shows once again the sense of desperation being felt by Rohingya in Myanmar and in the region," Indrika Ratwatte, UNHCR’s Director for Asia and the Pacific, said in a statement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rohingya refugee boat sinks off Myanmar, dozens dead or missing

Myanmar's ruling junta has condemned what it called "reckless and interfering" foreign statements about a rare execution order against two prominent opposition figures, accusing them of aiding terrorism by demanding their release.

The United Nations, the U.S. State Department and France last week denounced the rejection of the appeals of a veteran activist and a former lawmaker, a decision that paves the way for the country's first executions in decades.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/myanmar-junta-to-carry-out-countrys-first-judicial-executions-in-more-than-three-decades-484817">Myanmar junta to carry out country’s first judicial executions in more than three decades</a>

A state newspaper on Tuesday carried a foreign ministry statement rejecting the international criticism, expressing "utmost indignation and strong protest" at France in particular for calling the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;junta an illegitimate military regime, and accused it of meddling in its affairs.

"The ministry protests and objects in the strongest terms to the irresponsible and reckless statements and remarks," it said, adding the United States, France and UN remarks were "abetting terrorism" and neglecting what it called violent attacks against authorities.

Watch |&nbsp;First judicial execution in decades: Myanmar to execute four people

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Kyaw Min Yu, a veteran democracy activist, and Phyo Zeyar Thaw, a lawmaker for the former ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) party, were sentenced to death by a military tribunal in January on charges of treason and terrorism.

It is unclear when they will be executed or how they pled in their trials, which&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;has largely held behind closed doors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-one-million-displaced-in-myanmar-amid-violence-un-484453">Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency</a>

Judicial activists say the junta is controlling the courts and denying its opponents fair trials.

The military has been condemned globally for its deadly crackdown on the protests and dissent that followed its February 2021 coup.

The United Nations has said its investigations show the military has committed mass killings and crimes against humanity. The junta has said it is seeking to restore peace and order.

&nbsp;

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Myanmar's ruling junta has condemned what it called "reckless and interfering" foreign statements about a rare execution order against two prominent opposition figures, accusing them of aiding terrorism by demanding their release.

Myanmar's ruling junta has condemned what it called "reckless and interfering" foreign statements about a rare execution order against two prominent opposition figures, accusing them of aiding terrorism by demanding their release. The United Nations, the U.S. State Department and France last week denounced the rejection of the appeals of a veteran activist and a former lawmaker, a decision that paves the way for the country's first executions in decades. Also read | Myanmar junta to carry out country’s first judicial executions in more than three decades A state newspaper on Tuesday carried a foreign ministry statement rejecting the international criticism, expressing "utmost indignation and strong protest" at France in particular for calling the Myanmar junta an illegitimate military regime, and accused it of meddling in its affairs. "The ministry protests and objects in the strongest terms to the irresponsible and reckless statements and remarks," it said, adding the United States, France and UN remarks were "abetting terrorism" and neglecting what it called violent attacks against authorities. Watch | First judicial execution in decades: Myanmar to execute four people Kyaw Min Yu, a veteran democracy activist, and Phyo Zeyar Thaw, a lawmaker for the former ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) party, were sentenced to death by a military tribunal in January on charges of treason and terrorism. It is unclear when they will be executed or how they pled in their trials, which Myanmar has largely held behind closed doors. Also read | Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency Judicial activists say the junta is controlling the courts and denying its opponents fair trials. The military has been condemned globally for its deadly crackdown on the protests and dissent that followed its February 2021 coup. The United Nations has said its investigations show the military has committed mass killings and crimes against humanity. The junta has said it is seeking to restore peace and order. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar calls foreign outrage over activists death sentence 'reckless and interfering'

Myanmar is all set to execute four people. It will be the south-Asian nation's first judicial execution in decades.

First judicial execution in decades: Myanmar to execute four people

As the Myanmar conundrum escalates, villagers and media accused the Junta troops of torching hundreds of buildings during a three-day raid in the northern part of the country.

Myanmar: Junta troops on a burning spree as 3-day raid turns violent

Myanmar has not seen a single judicial execution since 1990 but that is all about to change. The country’s junta is all set to carry out the execution of Phyo Zeya Thaw, a prominent democracy activist who was also a part of Aung San Suu Kyi’s party. A spokesman confirmed to AFP that the activist was convicted of terrorism and will become the first judicial execution in more than three decades. Spokesperson Zaw Min Tun said that democracy activist Ko Jimmy and two others will also be executed. The four people were part of the anti-coup activists who were handed death sentences as part of the crackdown process when the military seized back the power in Myanmar last year.

"They continued the legal process of appealing and sending a request letter for the amendment of the sentence," said junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun according to an AFP report.

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"But the court rejected their appeal and request. There is no other step after that," he added.

Kyaw Min Yu, who is also known as Jimmy, is a prominent pro-democracy activist and his execution along with Phyo Zeya Thaw may result in public unrest among the citizens of Myanmar.

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The spokesman also said that the two other men were sentenced to death in connection to the murder of woman who they thought was an informer for the junta in Yangon.

While the news has already created a lot of ripples in Myanmar and all around the world, the spokesman also said that no official date has been set for the executions.

Myanmar has not seen a single judicial execution since 1990 but that is all about to change. The country’s junta is all set to carry out the execution of Phyo Zeya Thaw, a prominent democracy activist who was also a part of Aung San Suu Kyi’s party.

Myanmar has not seen a single judicial execution since 1990 but that is all about to change. The country’s junta is all set to carry out the execution of Phyo Zeya Thaw, a prominent democracy activist who was also a part of Aung San Suu Kyi’s party. A spokesman confirmed to AFP that the activist was convicted of terrorism and will become the first judicial execution in more than three decades. Spokesperson Zaw Min Tun said that democracy activist Ko Jimmy and two others will also be executed. The four people were part of the anti-coup activists who were handed death sentences as part of the crackdown process when the military seized back the power in Myanmar last year. "They continued the legal process of appealing and sending a request letter for the amendment of the sentence," said junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun according to an AFP report. Also read | Hong Kong police issues warning over Tiananmen Square anniversary gatherings "But the court rejected their appeal and request. There is no other step after that," he added. Kyaw Min Yu, who is also known as Jimmy, is a prominent pro-democracy activist and his execution along with Phyo Zeya Thaw may result in public unrest among the citizens of Myanmar. Also read | China claims it has developed AI powered defence against hypersonic missiles The spokesman also said that the two other men were sentenced to death in connection to the murder of woman who they thought was an informer for the junta in Yangon. While the news has already created a lot of ripples in Myanmar and all around the world, the spokesman also said that no official date has been set for the executions.

Myanmar junta to carry out country’s first judicial executions in more than three decades

The United Nations' humanitarian relief agency says the number of people displaced within strife-torn Myanmar has for the first time exceeded one million, with well over half the total losing their homes after a military takeover last year.&nbsp;The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says in a report that an already critical situation is being exacerbated by ongoing fighting between the military government and its opponents, the increasing prices of essential commodities, and the coming of monsoon season, while funding for its relief efforts is severely inadequate. Its report covers the situation up to May 26.

The military has hindered or denied independent access to areas not under its control, hampering aid efforts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-thousands-of-monks-gathered-at-juntas-organised-event-to-celebrate-buddhas-birthday-478918">Monks gather at Myanmar junta’s event to celebrate Buddha’s birthday</a>

Myanmar's army in February last year seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, triggering widespread peaceful protests. When those were put down with lethal force by the army and police, nonviolent opposition turned into armed resistance, and the country slipped into what some UN experts characterise as a civil war.

OCHA says that fighting has recently escalated.

The impact on civilians is worsening daily with frequent indiscriminate attacks and incidents involving explosive hazards, including landmines and explosive remnants of war," the report says.

It says that more than 694,300 people have become displaced from their homes since the army takeover, with thousands being uprooted a second or third time, and an estimated 346,000 people were displaced by fighting before last year's takeover&nbsp;mostly in frontier regions populated by ethnic minority groups who have been struggling for greater autonomy for decades.

The report also says about 40,200 people have fled to neighbouring countries since the takeover and more than 12,700 civilian properties, including houses, churches, monasteries and schools are estimated to have been destroyed.

As of the end of the first quarter of this year, humanitarian assistance reached 2.6 million people in Myanmar, or 41 per cent of the 6.2 million people targeted, OCHA says. The country's total population is over 55 million.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

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But it warns this year's Myanmar Humanitarian Response Plan is only 10 per cent funded so far, falling short by USD 740 million.

An official of the military government's Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement said on Wednesday at a news conference in Myanmar's capital Naypyitaw that the government distributed humanitarian aid to more than 130,000 displaced people from May 2021 through May 27 this year.

The official, whose testimony was broadcast but who was not identified by name, said 1,255 houses and five religious buildings were burned or destroyed in fighting between the army and local resistance militias and consequently received government aid for rebuilding.

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said last month that the number of people worldwide forced to flee conflict, violence, human rights violations and persecution has crossed the milestone of 100 million for the first time on record.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-aung-san-suu-kyi-gets-five-year-jail-term-for-corruption-474182">Myanmar junta sentences Aung San Suu Kyi for five years in prison</a>

That's more than one per cent of the global population and comprises refugees and asylum-seekers as well as people displaced inside their own countries by conflict.

Violence and conflicts in countries including Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Myanmar, Nigeria, Afghanistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo had driven the total to almost 90 million by the end of last year. The war in Ukraine pushed the number past the 100 million mark.

The Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, an independent Geneva-based non-governmental organisation, said 53.2 million people were displaced within their countries as a result of conflict and violence as of December 31.&nbsp;

The United Nations' humanitarian relief agency says the number of people displaced within strife-torn Myanmar has for the first time exceeded one million, with well over half the total losing their homes after a military takeover last year.

The United Nations' humanitarian relief agency says the number of people displaced within strife-torn Myanmar has for the first time exceeded one million, with well over half the total losing their homes after a military takeover last year. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says in a report that an already critical situation is being exacerbated by ongoing fighting between the military government and its opponents, the increasing prices of essential commodities, and the coming of monsoon season, while funding for its relief efforts is severely inadequate. Its report covers the situation up to May 26. The military has hindered or denied independent access to areas not under its control, hampering aid efforts. Also read | Monks gather at Myanmar junta’s event to celebrate Buddha’s birthday Myanmar's army in February last year seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, triggering widespread peaceful protests. When those were put down with lethal force by the army and police, nonviolent opposition turned into armed resistance, and the country slipped into what some UN experts characterise as a civil war. OCHA says that fighting has recently escalated. The impact on civilians is worsening daily with frequent indiscriminate attacks and incidents involving explosive hazards, including landmines and explosive remnants of war," the report says. It says that more than 694,300 people have become displaced from their homes since the army takeover, with thousands being uprooted a second or third time, and an estimated 346,000 people were displaced by fighting before last year's takeover mostly in frontier regions populated by ethnic minority groups who have been struggling for greater autonomy for decades. The report also says about 40,200 people have fled to neighbouring countries since the takeover and more than 12,700 civilian properties, including houses, churches, monasteries and schools are estimated to have been destroyed. As of the end of the first quarter of this year, humanitarian assistance reached 2.6 million people in Myanmar, or 41 per cent of the 6.2 million people targeted, OCHA says. The country's total population is over 55 million. Watch | Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide? But it warns this year's Myanmar Humanitarian Response Plan is only 10 per cent funded so far, falling short by USD 740 million. An official of the military government's Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement said on Wednesday at a news conference in Myanmar's capital Naypyitaw that the government distributed humanitarian aid to more than 130,000 displaced people from May 2021 through May 27 this year. The official, whose testimony was broadcast but who was not identified by name, said 1,255 houses and five religious buildings were burned or destroyed in fighting between the army and local resistance militias and consequently received government aid for rebuilding. UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said last month that the number of people worldwide forced to flee conflict, violence, human rights violations and persecution has crossed the milestone of 100 million for the first time on record. Also read | Myanmar junta sentences Aung San Suu Kyi for five years in prison That's more than one per cent of the global population and comprises refugees and asylum-seekers as well as people displaced inside their own countries by conflict. Violence and conflicts in countries including Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Myanmar, Nigeria, Afghanistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo had driven the total to almost 90 million by the end of last year. The war in Ukraine pushed the number past the 100 million mark. The Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, an independent Geneva-based non-governmental organisation, said 53.2 million people were displaced within their countries as a result of conflict and violence as of December 31.

Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency

Monks gather at Myanmar junta’s event to celebrate Buddha’s birthday

A Myanmar junta court on Wednesday (April 27) found deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi guilty of corruption and sentenced her to five years in prison, news agencies reported citing a source familiar with the matter.&nbsp;

On February 1, 2021, a coup d'état in Myanmar began when members of the ruling party National League for Democracy (NLD) were deposed by the military. Suu Kyi has been in military custody since the night of the coup.&nbsp;

The 76-year-old Nobel laureate is facing criminal cases that could apparently see her jailed for decades. In the latest case, she was accused of accepting a bribe of $600,000 cash and gold bars. Meanwhile, Suu Kyi had called the allegations "absurd" and denied all the charges. &nbsp;

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The source further added that the judge handed down the verdict within moments of the court convening.&nbsp;

The source declined to be identified because the trial is being held behind closed doors, with information restricted.&nbsp;

It has been understood that the case centred on allegations that Suu Kyi accepted 11.4 kg of gold and cash payments from her protege-turned-accuser, former Yangon chief minister Phyo Min Thein.&nbsp;

Reports have stated that Suu Kyi has been held in an undisclosed location, however, there's no confirmation whether she would be transferred to a prison.&nbsp;

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The international community has been demanding the release of Suu Kyi ever since she, with some other politicians, was detained when the military seized control of the country and ousted the democratically elected government.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The military says Suu Kyi is on trial because she committed crimes and is being given due process by an independent judiciary.&nbsp;

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A Myanmar junta court on Wednesday (April 27) found deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi guilty of corruption and sentenced her to five years in prison, news agencies reported citing a source familiar with the matter.

A Myanmar junta court on Wednesday (April 27) found deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi guilty of corruption and sentenced her to five years in prison, news agencies reported citing a source familiar with the matter. On February 1, 2021, a coup d'état in Myanmar began when members of the ruling party National League for Democracy (NLD) were deposed by the military. Suu Kyi has been in military custody since the night of the coup. The 76-year-old Nobel laureate is facing criminal cases that could apparently see her jailed for decades. In the latest case, she was accused of accepting a bribe of $600,000 cash and gold bars. Meanwhile, Suu Kyi had called the allegations "absurd" and denied all the charges. ALSO READ | World Bank agrees to provide $600 million in financial assistance to Sri Lanka The source further added that the judge handed down the verdict within moments of the court convening. The source declined to be identified because the trial is being held behind closed doors, with information restricted. It has been understood that the case centred on allegations that Suu Kyi accepted 11.4 kg of gold and cash payments from her protege-turned-accuser, former Yangon chief minister Phyo Min Thein. Reports have stated that Suu Kyi has been held in an undisclosed location, however, there's no confirmation whether she would be transferred to a prison. ALSO WATCH | North Korea remains unvaccinated as it demands American jabs against COVID-19 × ALSO READ | Sri Lanka unveils new 'golden' visa policy to combat economic crisis The international community has been demanding the release of Suu Kyi ever since she, with some other politicians, was detained when the military seized control of the country and ousted the democratically elected government. The military says Suu Kyi is on trial because she committed crimes and is being given due process by an independent judiciary. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Myanmar junta sentences Aung San Suu Kyi for five years in prison

Myanmar's former leader Aung San Suu Kyi gets 5 years in prison over corruption charges. According to reports, Junta will hold elections next year.

Convicted over corruption charges, Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi gets 5 years in prison

A Myanmar junta court on Monday postponed giving its first verdict in the corruption trial of ousted leader&nbsp;Aung San Suu Kyi, a junta spokesman told AFP, a case which could see the Nobel laureate jailed for 15 years.&nbsp;

Suu&nbsp;Kyi, 76, has been detained since the generals staged a coup and ousted her government in February last year, ending the Southeast Asian country's brief period of democracy.

She has since been hit with a series of charges, including violating the official secrets act, corruption and electoral fraud, and she faces decades in jail if convicted on all counts.

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"There was no verdict today," in the corruption trial in which&nbsp;Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;is accused of accepting a bribe of $600,000 cash and gold bars from the former chief minister of Yangon, junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun told AFP.

He did not give any details on when a verdict would be reached.&nbsp;

Journalists have been barred from attending the special court hearings in the military-built capital Naypyidaw and&nbsp;Suu&nbsp;Kyi's lawyers have been banned from speaking to the media.

Watch |&nbsp;Junta burns over 100 villages in Central Myanmar

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Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;is facing a total of 10 corruption charges -- each with a possible 15-year jail term.

She is also on trial for breaching the official secrets act, where she is accused alongside detained Australian academic Sean Turnell.&nbsp;

She has already been sentenced to six years in jail for incitement against the military, breaching Covid-19 rules and breaking a telecommunications law -- although she will remain under house arrest while she fights other charges.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-mark-new-year-holiday-myanmars-junta-govt-releases-over-1600-prisoners-but-not-political-detainees-471703">To mark New Year holiday, Myanmar's junta govt releases over 1,600 prisoners, but not ‘political detainees’</a>

That likely excludes the popular leader from elections the junta has said it plans to hold by next year.

Since the coup, many members of her National League for Democracy -- which trounced a military-backed party in 2020 elections -- have been arrested, with one chief minister sentenced to 75 years in jail.

Under a previous junta regime,&nbsp;Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;spent long spells under house arrest at her family's colonial-era mansion in Yangon.

More than 1,700 people have been killed and over 13,000 arrested in a crackdown on dissent since the coup, according to a local monitoring group.

A Myanmar junta court on Monday postponed giving its first verdict in the corruption trial of ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi, a junta spokesman told AFP, a case which could see the Nobel laureate jailed for 15 years.

A Myanmar junta court on Monday postponed giving its first verdict in the corruption trial of ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi, a junta spokesman told AFP, a case which could see the Nobel laureate jailed for 15 years. Suu Kyi, 76, has been detained since the generals staged a coup and ousted her government in February last year, ending the Southeast Asian country's brief period of democracy. She has since been hit with a series of charges, including violating the official secrets act, corruption and electoral fraud, and she faces decades in jail if convicted on all counts. Also read | Myanmar junta chief calls for peace talks with ethnic rebels "There was no verdict today," in the corruption trial in which Suu Kyi is accused of accepting a bribe of $600,000 cash and gold bars from the former chief minister of Yangon, junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun told AFP. He did not give any details on when a verdict would be reached. Journalists have been barred from attending the special court hearings in the military-built capital Naypyidaw and Suu Kyi's lawyers have been banned from speaking to the media. Watch | Junta burns over 100 villages in Central Myanmar Suu Kyi is facing a total of 10 corruption charges -- each with a possible 15-year jail term. She is also on trial for breaching the official secrets act, where she is accused alongside detained Australian academic Sean Turnell. She has already been sentenced to six years in jail for incitement against the military, breaching Covid-19 rules and breaking a telecommunications law -- although she will remain under house arrest while she fights other charges. Also read | To mark New Year holiday, Myanmar's junta govt releases over 1,600 prisoners, but not ‘political detainees’ That likely excludes the popular leader from elections the junta has said it plans to hold by next year. Since the coup, many members of her National League for Democracy -- which trounced a military-backed party in 2020 elections -- have been arrested, with one chief minister sentenced to 75 years in jail. Under a previous junta regime, Suu Kyi spent long spells under house arrest at her family's colonial-era mansion in Yangon. More than 1,700 people have been killed and over 13,000 arrested in a crackdown on dissent since the coup, according to a local monitoring group.

Myanmar junta court delays verdict in Suu Kyi corruption trial

Myanmar's junta chief on Friday called for face-to-face peace talks with the country's established ethnic rebel groups, as the military struggles to crush newer anti-junta militias that have sprung up to fight the coup.

Myanmar has about 20 ethnic rebel armies -- many of which control swathes of remote border territory -- that have fought each other and the military for decades over the drug trade, natural resources and autonomy.

Some have condemned the ouster of Aung San Suu Kyi’s government and offered shelter and weapons training to "People's Defence Forces" (PDF) that have sprung up since the putsch and which analysts say have surprised the military with their effectiveness.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-mark-new-year-holiday-myanmars-junta-govt-releases-over-1600-prisoners-but-not-political-detainees-471703">To mark New Year holiday, Myanmar's junta govt releases over 1,600 prisoners, but not ‘political detainees’</a>

"I invite leaders of ethnic armed groups for dialogue," junta chief Min Aung Hlaing said in an address on state media, calling for representatives to register by May 9 and adding he would meet them personally.

"We are all going to discuss honestly and openly... for the people to be able to enjoy the essence of peace and development," he said, without giving a date for proposed talks.

The call comes amid daily clashes between junta troops and PDF groups, some of which are fighting alongside ethnic rebels in border areas.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Junta burns over 100 villages in Central Myanmar

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Last week, the junta said its troops had displaced hundreds of PDF fighters as well as members of the Kachin Independence Army after days of clashes around Pinlebu town in the northern Sagaing region.

Heavy fighting has also been reported in Kayin state near the Thai border, with PDF fighters conducting operations alongside troops from the Karen National Union, another established rebel group.

&nbsp;Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sneaked-sketches-from-myanmars-prison-depicts-insights-of-life-in-prison-469068">Sketches smuggled out of Myanmar's prison tell horrible tale of country's most notorious jail - see pics</a>

Last month, Min Aung Hlaing vowed the military would "annihilate" PDF forces in a speech at the annual Armed Forces Day parade, which was attended by representatives from several ethnic rebel groups.

More than 1,700 people have been killed in a military crackdown since the coup, according to a local monitoring group.&nbsp;

Myanmar's junta chief on Friday called for face-to-face peace talks with the country's established ethnic rebel groups, as the military struggles to crush newer anti-junta militias that have sprung up to fight the coup.

Myanmar's junta chief on Friday called for face-to-face peace talks with the country's established ethnic rebel groups, as the military struggles to crush newer anti-junta militias that have sprung up to fight the coup. Myanmar has about 20 ethnic rebel armies -- many of which control swathes of remote border territory -- that have fought each other and the military for decades over the drug trade, natural resources and autonomy. Some have condemned the ouster of Aung San Suu Kyi’s government and offered shelter and weapons training to "People's Defence Forces" (PDF) that have sprung up since the putsch and which analysts say have surprised the military with their effectiveness. Also read | To mark New Year holiday, Myanmar's junta govt releases over 1,600 prisoners, but not ‘political detainees’ "I invite leaders of ethnic armed groups for dialogue," junta chief Min Aung Hlaing said in an address on state media, calling for representatives to register by May 9 and adding he would meet them personally. "We are all going to discuss honestly and openly... for the people to be able to enjoy the essence of peace and development," he said, without giving a date for proposed talks. The call comes amid daily clashes between junta troops and PDF groups, some of which are fighting alongside ethnic rebels in border areas. Watch | Junta burns over 100 villages in Central Myanmar Last week, the junta said its troops had displaced hundreds of PDF fighters as well as members of the Kachin Independence Army after days of clashes around Pinlebu town in the northern Sagaing region. Heavy fighting has also been reported in Kayin state near the Thai border, with PDF fighters conducting operations alongside troops from the Karen National Union, another established rebel group. Also read | Sketches smuggled out of Myanmar's prison tell horrible tale of country's most notorious jail - see pics Last month, Min Aung Hlaing vowed the military would "annihilate" PDF forces in a speech at the annual Armed Forces Day parade, which was attended by representatives from several ethnic rebel groups. More than 1,700 people have been killed in a military crackdown since the coup, according to a local monitoring group.

Myanmar junta chief calls for peace talks with ethnic rebels

To mark New Year holiday, Myanmar's junta government has started to release more than 1,600 prisoners on Sunday. These prisoners do not include political detainees, reports said. &nbsp;

This comes as the ruling general has vowed to bring peace to the country this year. &nbsp;

Earlier, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, head, Myanmar's military council, had pardoned 1,619 prisoners. It includes 42 foreigners, who will be deported, state-run MRTV television reported. &nbsp;

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Those released were mostly drug offenders and common criminals, Myanmar's Prison Department spokesman Khin Shwe told AP. &nbsp;

He also added that he was unaware if any political prisoners were also being released. &nbsp;

The political detainees are being held as hostages by military leader Min Aung Hlaing, said Tun Kyi, senior member, Former Political Prisoners Society. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Sri Lanka declares 5 day share trading halt, faces food and fuel shortage

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"He knows the political prisoners will oppose him again if they were released," Kyi said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Around 10,238 people, including Suu Kyi, are being held by the government, said Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, which keeps track of political arrests and killings, on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In speech on New Year, Min Aung Hlaing said he is doing his best to bring peace in 2022. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"The strength of the country comes from inside the country. I will try my best, with the strength of the people," the general said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

To mark New Year holiday, Myanmar's junta government has started to release more than 1,600 prisoners on Sunday. These prisoners do not include political detainees, reports said.

To mark New Year holiday, Myanmar's junta government has started to release more than 1,600 prisoners on Sunday. These prisoners do not include political detainees, reports said. This comes as the ruling general has vowed to bring peace to the country this year. Earlier, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, head, Myanmar's military council, had pardoned 1,619 prisoners. It includes 42 foreigners, who will be deported, state-run MRTV television reported. Also Read: Chinese astronauts return to Earth after longest crewed mission Those released were mostly drug offenders and common criminals, Myanmar's Prison Department spokesman Khin Shwe told AP. He also added that he was unaware if any political prisoners were also being released. The political detainees are being held as hostages by military leader Min Aung Hlaing, said Tun Kyi, senior member, Former Political Prisoners Society. Watch: Sri Lanka declares 5 day share trading halt, faces food and fuel shortage × "He knows the political prisoners will oppose him again if they were released," Kyi said. Around 10,238 people, including Suu Kyi, are being held by the government, said Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, which keeps track of political arrests and killings, on Friday. In speech on New Year, Min Aung Hlaing said he is doing his best to bring peace in 2022. "The strength of the country comes from inside the country. I will try my best, with the strength of the people," the general said. (With inputs from agencies)

To mark New Year holiday, Myanmar's junta govt releases over 1,600 prisoners, but not ‘political detainees’

It's been over a year since the coup in Myanmar the Junta is still quelling resistance in the country. Since the start of the year, the military has destroyed over 100 villages.

Junta burns over 100 villages in Central Myanmar

Sketches smuggled out of Myanmar's prison tell horrible tale of country's most notorious jail - see pics

&nbsp;In one drawing, dozens of men sit crammed into a single room, hunched with their knees together, every inch of space occupied. In another, they lie back to back on the floor, their faces straining with discomfort.

Fourteen sketches smuggled out of&nbsp;Myanmar's Insein Prison and interviews with eight former prisoners offer a rare glimpse inside the country's most notorious jail, where thousands of political prisoners have been sent since last year's military coup and communication with the outside world is sharply limited.

&nbsp;The rough, blue-ink sketches show daily life for groups of male prisoners in their dormitories, queuing for water from a trough to wash, talking or lying on the floor in the tropical heat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-suu-kyi-back-in-junta-court-after-covid-quarantine-467202">Myanmar's Suu Kyi back in junta court after Covid quarantine</a>

Beyond those depictions, the eight recently released inmates told Reuters the colonial-era facility in Yangon is infested with rats, a place where bribes are common, prisoners pay for sleeping space on the floor and widespread illness goes untreated.

"We're no longer humans behind bars," said Nyi Nyi Htwe, 24, who smuggled the sketches out of the prison when he was released in October, after spending several months for a defamation conviction, on charges he denies, in connection with joining protests against the coup.

Reuters could not independently verify the accounts provided by the former inmates.

Myanmar's junta, which seized power from the elected government of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, and prison administration did not respond to multiple requests for comment on conditions shown in the sketches and described by the former inmates.

Rights groups including the International Committee of the Red Cross told Reuters they have been denied access to the jail.

Built by the British in 1871, Insein is&nbsp;Myanmar's largest prison, housing many people arrested for opposing the junta.

&nbsp;Reuters journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, convicted of breaking&nbsp;Myanmar's Official Secrets Act in 2017, spent most of their 511 days behind bars in Insein. They were released in a 2019 amnesty, before the latest coup.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar military resorting to a strategy of massacres &amp; scorched earth tactics as it burns villages

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-military-resorting-to-a-strategy-of-massacres-scorched-earth-tactics-as-it-burns-villages-441708/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Prison population swells

The artist drew the prison sketches between April and July of last year. Later released, he declined to be interviewed or identified, telling Nyi Nyi Htwe he feared rearrest.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nyi Nyi Htwe, who met the artist in prison, said he sketched prisoners if asked and drew prison scenes wherever he went, saying he felt more relaxed while drawing. He gave Nyi Nyi Htwe the sketches as a birthday present.

&nbsp;Nyi Nyi Htwe said he smuggled them out on his release to show friends, family and others the conditions inside.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Since the coup, 10,072 people have been detained in the Southeast Asian country, including Suu Kyi and most of her cabinet, and over 1,730 people have been killed, according to the nonprofit Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, whose tallies are widely cited. The junta has said AAPP's figures are exaggerated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-says-will-annihilate-coup-opponents-on-crackdown-anniversary-465854">Myanmar army says will 'annihilate' coup opponents on crackdown anniversary</a>

Many of those detained have been sent to Insein.

&nbsp;Built to incarcerate around 5,000 people, the prison has seen inmate numbers swell to over 10,000 since the coup, said a spokesperson for the AAPP. Reuters could not confirm the figures.

The sketches reflect the increase in the months after the coup, said Nyi Nyi Htwe.

In one from late April, a few prisoners sit apart in their dorm, some reading books. A picture from June shows about 60 people in the same room - many lying in tight rows down the centre, the rest hunched against the walls.

Nyi Nyi Htwe said he and as many as 100 others were packed well beyond capacity into a room where they "slept a finger-width apart," and that he watched prison officers beat inmates with batons and had to pay bribes to send messages to family that they told him often did not arrive.

'Lucky not to die'

With the overcrowding came water shortages, disease, fatigue, fighting between prisoners and flourishing bribery, said people released in recent months.

&nbsp;"Rats ran around in the room. The toilets were filthy. The food was mixed with flies. Those who couldn't pay a bribe had to sleep next to the toilet bucket," said Sandar Win, a 42-year-old social worker jailed at Insein for several months for defamation after protesting against the junta.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asean-envoy-says-urged-restraint-from-myanmar-military-discussed-aung-san-suu-kyi-access-465104">ASEAN envoy says urged restraint from Myanmar military, discussed Aung San Suu Kyi access</a>

She was released under an amnesty while awaiting sentencing for the charges, which she denies. She has since fled&nbsp;Myanmar.

&nbsp;Access to outdoor latrines was limited, forcing prisoners to defecate in buckets in their rooms, three women former inmates said. These unsanitary conditions allowed skin and bowel diseases to spread, and there was little medical help, they said.

&nbsp;A handwritten note by a group of anonymous Insein inmates, smuggled out to a prominent human rights activist in February, alleges several instances of medical negligence, including failure to treat people beaten unconscious and a person who had suffered a stroke and was paralysed.

&nbsp;"These cases are happening right in front of us," said the note, which was shown to Reuters by the activist, Nan Lin. "We request urgent help from international organisations and local organisations."

Reuters could not independently verify the note's authenticity, but several former inmates said they had witnessed or suffered beatings by guards and there was little medical support.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-junta-categorically-rejects-us-allegation-of-rohingya-genocide-464692">Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide</a>

Despite a COVID-19 vaccination drive at Insein last summer that was publicised on state media, former inmates said the coronavirus thrived in the crowded prison. At least 10 prisoners are suspected to have died from the disease, according to the AAPP.

Nyi Nyi Htwe, who has joined an armed rebel group, said nearly two-thirds of his dormitory were sick with covid&nbsp;symptoms last summer.

"They put all the sick people in our room — high fever, coughing and ill," he said. "I was lucky enough not to die."&nbsp;

In one drawing, dozens of men sit crammed into a single room, hunched with their knees together, every inch of space occupied. In another, they lie back to back on the floor, their faces straining with discomfort.

In one drawing, dozens of men sit crammed into a single room, hunched with their knees together, every inch of space occupied. In another, they lie back to back on the floor, their faces straining with discomfort. Fourteen sketches smuggled out of Myanmar's Insein Prison and interviews with eight former prisoners offer a rare glimpse inside the country's most notorious jail, where thousands of political prisoners have been sent since last year's military coup and communication with the outside world is sharply limited. The rough, blue-ink sketches show daily life for groups of male prisoners in their dormitories, queuing for water from a trough to wash, talking or lying on the floor in the tropical heat. Also read | Myanmar's Suu Kyi back in junta court after Covid quarantine Beyond those depictions, the eight recently released inmates told Reuters the colonial-era facility in Yangon is infested with rats, a place where bribes are common, prisoners pay for sleeping space on the floor and widespread illness goes untreated. "We're no longer humans behind bars," said Nyi Nyi Htwe, 24, who smuggled the sketches out of the prison when he was released in October, after spending several months for a defamation conviction, on charges he denies, in connection with joining protests against the coup. Reuters could not independently verify the accounts provided by the former inmates. Myanmar's junta, which seized power from the elected government of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, and prison administration did not respond to multiple requests for comment on conditions shown in the sketches and described by the former inmates. Rights groups including the International Committee of the Red Cross told Reuters they have been denied access to the jail. Built by the British in 1871, Insein is Myanmar's largest prison, housing many people arrested for opposing the junta. Reuters journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, convicted of breaking Myanmar's Official Secrets Act in 2017, spent most of their 511 days behind bars in Insein. They were released in a 2019 amnesty, before the latest coup. Watch | Myanmar military resorting to a strategy of massacres & scorched earth tactics as it burns villages Prison population swells The artist drew the prison sketches between April and July of last year. Later released, he declined to be interviewed or identified, telling Nyi Nyi Htwe he feared rearrest. Nyi Nyi Htwe, who met the artist in prison, said he sketched prisoners if asked and drew prison scenes wherever he went, saying he felt more relaxed while drawing. He gave Nyi Nyi Htwe the sketches as a birthday present. Nyi Nyi Htwe said he smuggled them out on his release to show friends, family and others the conditions inside. Since the coup, 10,072 people have been detained in the Southeast Asian country, including Suu Kyi and most of her cabinet, and over 1,730 people have been killed, according to the nonprofit Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, whose tallies are widely cited. The junta has said AAPP's figures are exaggerated. Also read | Myanmar army says will 'annihilate' coup opponents on crackdown anniversary Many of those detained have been sent to Insein. Built to incarcerate around 5,000 people, the prison has seen inmate numbers swell to over 10,000 since the coup, said a spokesperson for the AAPP. Reuters could not confirm the figures. The sketches reflect the increase in the months after the coup, said Nyi Nyi Htwe. In one from late April, a few prisoners sit apart in their dorm, some reading books. A picture from June shows about 60 people in the same room - many lying in tight rows down the centre, the rest hunched against the walls. Nyi Nyi Htwe said he and as many as 100 others were packed well beyond capacity into a room where they "slept a finger-width apart," and that he watched prison officers beat inmates with batons and had to pay bribes to send messages to family that they told him often did not arrive. 'Lucky not to die' With the overcrowding came water shortages, disease, fatigue, fighting between prisoners and flourishing bribery, said people released in recent months. "Rats ran around in the room. The toilets were filthy. The food was mixed with flies. Those who couldn't pay a bribe had to sleep next to the toilet bucket," said Sandar Win, a 42-year-old social worker jailed at Insein for several months for defamation after protesting against the junta. Also read | ASEAN envoy says urged restraint from Myanmar military, discussed Aung San Suu Kyi access She was released under an amnesty while awaiting sentencing for the charges, which she denies. She has since fled Myanmar. Access to outdoor latrines was limited, forcing prisoners to defecate in buckets in their rooms, three women former inmates said. These unsanitary conditions allowed skin and bowel diseases to spread, and there was little medical help, they said. A handwritten note by a group of anonymous Insein inmates, smuggled out to a prominent human rights activist in February, alleges several instances of medical negligence, including failure to treat people beaten unconscious and a person who had suffered a stroke and was paralysed. "These cases are happening right in front of us," said the note, which was shown to Reuters by the activist, Nan Lin. "We request urgent help from international organisations and local organisations." Reuters could not independently verify the note's authenticity, but several former inmates said they had witnessed or suffered beatings by guards and there was little medical support. Also read | Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide Despite a COVID-19 vaccination drive at Insein last summer that was publicised on state media, former inmates said the coronavirus thrived in the crowded prison. At least 10 prisoners are suspected to have died from the disease, according to the AAPP. Nyi Nyi Htwe, who has joined an armed rebel group, said nearly two-thirds of his dormitory were sick with covid symptoms last summer. "They put all the sick people in our room — high fever, coughing and ill," he said. "I was lucky enough not to die."

Smuggled sketches offer glimpses into harsh Myanmar prison

Ousted&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;leader Aung San&nbsp;Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;returned for hearings in a&nbsp;junta&nbsp;court&nbsp;Thursday&nbsp;after&nbsp;being quarantined when&nbsp;Covid-19 was detected&nbsp;among her staff, a source with knowledge of her case said.

The 76-year-old's civilian government was removed in a coup last year that triggered mass protests, and she faces a raft of charges that could see her sentenced to more than 150 years in jail.

Currently on trial for alleged corruption, breaching&nbsp;Myanmar's official secrets act and pressuring the election commission, Suu Kyi was placed in&nbsp;quarantine&nbsp;last week&nbsp;after&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;was found among her staff.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-suu-kyi-in-quarantine-after-staff-tests-covid-19-positive-466279">Myanmar's Suu Kyi 'in quarantine' after staff tests COVID-19 positive</a>

On Thursday she "appeared before the district judge" for her official secrets act trial in a special&nbsp;court&nbsp;in the military-built capital Naypyidaw, said a source with knowledge of the matter.

Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;is accused along with Australian economist Sean Turnell, who was arrested in the days following the coup last February.

The charge carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison.

Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;and her personal staff have been fully vaccinated against&nbsp;Covid-19 since being taken into military custody, her lawyer told AFP last July.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-says-will-annihilate-coup-opponents-on-crackdown-anniversary-465854">&nbsp;Myanmar army says will 'annihilate' coup opponents on crackdown anniversary</a>

She missed a hearing in September due to illness, and in October her lawyer said her health had suffered during her frequent appearances before the&nbsp;junta-run&nbsp;court.

Journalists are barred from the proceedings and her lawyers have been banned from speaking to the press.

Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;has already been sentenced to a total of six years in jail for incitement against the military, breaching&nbsp;Covid-19 rules and breaking a telecommunications law -- although she remains under house arrest while she fights other charges.

Watch |&nbsp;US determines Myanmar Junta committed genocide against Rohingya

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Ousted Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi returned for hearings in a junta court Thursday after being quarantined when Covid-19 was detected among her staff, a source with knowledge of her case said.

Ousted Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi returned for hearings in a junta court Thursday after being quarantined when Covid-19 was detected among her staff, a source with knowledge of her case said. The 76-year-old's civilian government was removed in a coup last year that triggered mass protests, and she faces a raft of charges that could see her sentenced to more than 150 years in jail. Currently on trial for alleged corruption, breaching Myanmar's official secrets act and pressuring the election commission, Suu Kyi was placed in quarantine last week after Covid was found among her staff. Also read | Myanmar's Suu Kyi 'in quarantine' after staff tests COVID-19 positive On Thursday she "appeared before the district judge" for her official secrets act trial in a special court in the military-built capital Naypyidaw, said a source with knowledge of the matter. Suu Kyi is accused along with Australian economist Sean Turnell, who was arrested in the days following the coup last February. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison. Suu Kyi and her personal staff have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 since being taken into military custody, her lawyer told AFP last July. Also read | Myanmar army says will 'annihilate' coup opponents on crackdown anniversary She missed a hearing in September due to illness, and in October her lawyer said her health had suffered during her frequent appearances before the junta-run court. Journalists are barred from the proceedings and her lawyers have been banned from speaking to the press. Suu Kyi has already been sentenced to a total of six years in jail for incitement against the military, breaching Covid-19 rules and breaking a telecommunications law -- although she remains under house arrest while she fights other charges. Watch | US determines Myanmar Junta committed genocide against Rohingya

Myanmar's Suu Kyi back in junta court after Covid quarantine

Detained former&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;leader Aung San Suu Kyi has skipped three days of her trial in a junta court after Covid-19 was detected among her staff and she was placed in quarantine, a source with knowledge of the case said Monday.

The 76-year-old's civilian government was ousted in a coup last year that triggered mass protests, and she faces a raft of charges that could see her jailed for more than 150 years.

Currently on trial for alleged corruption, breaching&nbsp;Myanmar's official secrets act and pressuring the election commission, Suu Kyi has not appeared in court since last Thursday, the legal source told AFP.&nbsp;

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"Some people in her company have been infected by Covid-19... and so she's kept in quarantine, although she's not infected," the source said.&nbsp;

"We are worried because we haven't been able to see her."

Former president Win Myint -- charged alongside Suu Kyi -- appeared at the court on Monday via video conferencing, the source added.

Suu Kyi and her personal staff have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 since being taken into military custody, her lawyer told AFP last July.

She missed a hearing in September due to illness, and in October, her lawyer said her health had suffered from her frequent appearances before the junta-run court.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-says-will-annihilate-coup-opponents-on-crackdown-anniversary-465854">&nbsp;Myanmar army says will 'annihilate' coup opponents on crackdown anniversary</a>

Journalists are barred from the proceedings in the military-built capital Naypyidaw, and her lawyers have been banned from speaking to the press.

Suu Kyi was previously sentenced to a total six years in jail for incitement against the military, breaching Covid-19 rules and breaking a telecommunications law -- although she remains under house arrest while she fights other charges.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-committed-genocide-against-rohingya-says-us-but-what-is-genocide-464662/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Detained former Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi has skipped three days of her trial in a junta court after Covid-19 was detected among her staff and she was placed in quarantine, a source with knowledge of the case said Monday.

Detained former Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi has skipped three days of her trial in a junta court after Covid-19 was detected among her staff and she was placed in quarantine, a source with knowledge of the case said Monday. The 76-year-old's civilian government was ousted in a coup last year that triggered mass protests, and she faces a raft of charges that could see her jailed for more than 150 years. Currently on trial for alleged corruption, breaching Myanmar's official secrets act and pressuring the election commission, Suu Kyi has not appeared in court since last Thursday, the legal source told AFP. Also read | Different variants may cause different long COVID-19 symptoms, says study "Some people in her company have been infected by Covid-19... and so she's kept in quarantine, although she's not infected," the source said. "We are worried because we haven't been able to see her." Former president Win Myint -- charged alongside Suu Kyi -- appeared at the court on Monday via video conferencing, the source added. Suu Kyi and her personal staff have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 since being taken into military custody, her lawyer told AFP last July. She missed a hearing in September due to illness, and in October, her lawyer said her health had suffered from her frequent appearances before the junta-run court. Also read | Myanmar army says will 'annihilate' coup opponents on crackdown anniversary Journalists are barred from the proceedings in the military-built capital Naypyidaw, and her lawyers have been banned from speaking to the press. Suu Kyi was previously sentenced to a total six years in jail for incitement against the military, breaching Covid-19 rules and breaking a telecommunications law -- although she remains under house arrest while she fights other charges. Watch | Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

Myanmar's Suu Kyi 'in quarantine' after staff tests COVID-19 positive

Myanmar's junta will "annihilate" coup opponents, army chief Min Aung Hlaing said Sunday as the military staged a show of force on the anniversary of its bloodiest crackdown so far on democracy protests.

The Southeast Asian country has been in chaos since a putsch in February 2021, with more than 1,700 people killed in crackdowns on dissent, according to a local monitoring group.

Anti-coup "People's Defence Force" fighters clash regularly with junta troops, while fighting has also flared in border areas with more established ethnic rebel groups.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asean-envoy-says-urged-restraint-from-myanmar-military-discussed-aung-san-suu-kyi-access-465104">ASEAN envoy says urged restraint from Myanmar military, discussed Aung San Suu Kyi access</a>

Presiding over the annual parade that showcased tanks, truck-mounted missiles, artillery and troops on horseback, Min Aung Hlaing told some 8,000 assembled security personnel that the army would not let up.

The military will "no longer negotiate... and annihilate until the end" groups fighting to overturn its rule, he said ahead of the Armed Forces Day procession in army-built capital Naypyidaw.

Jets flew overhead trailing the yellow, red and green of the national flag, while state media showed women lining the streets leading to the parade ground to give flowers and place garlands on the marching soldiers.

Meanwhile, anti-coup protesters called on social media for a national "power strike" demonstration on Sunday evening.

Bloodiest Day&nbsp;

Armed Forces Day commemorates the start of local resistance to the Japanese occupation during World War II, and usually features a military parade attended by foreign officers and diplomats.

Last year, as new junta chief Min Aung Hlaing inspected the parade, troops brutalised those protesting the coup that had ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rohingya-in-bangladesh-cheer-us-decision-on-myanmar-genocide-465074">Rohingya in Bangladesh cheer US decision on Myanmar 'genocide'</a>

The violence was the bloodiest day so far in the military's crackdown on democracy rallies and left 163 protesters dead, according to a local monitoring group, and sparked widespread international condemnation.

The junta has become increasingly isolated, with Cambodian strongman Hun Sen the only foreign leader to visit since the putsch.

The vice defence minister of Russia -- a major arms supplier and ally -- had been due to attend this year's parade but was unable to because of his "country's affairs", junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun said.

In February a UN expert on Myanmar said Russia -- along with other major ally China -- was continuing to supply the military with weapons, including fighter jets and armoured vehicles.

The United States and Britain on Friday announced new sanctions against Myanmar's army.

The new measures came days after Washington said it has concluded that the country's military committed genocide against the mostly Muslim Rohingya minority.&nbsp;

Since the putsch more than 1,700 people have been killed in a military crackdown on dissent, according to a local monitoring group.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-committed-genocide-against-rohingya-says-us-but-what-is-genocide-464662/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Myanmar's junta will "annihilate" coup opponents, army chief Min Aung Hlaing said Sunday as the military staged a show of force on the anniversary of its bloodiest crackdown so far on democracy protests.

Myanmar's junta will "annihilate" coup opponents, army chief Min Aung Hlaing said Sunday as the military staged a show of force on the anniversary of its bloodiest crackdown so far on democracy protests. The Southeast Asian country has been in chaos since a putsch in February 2021, with more than 1,700 people killed in crackdowns on dissent, according to a local monitoring group. Anti-coup "People's Defence Force" fighters clash regularly with junta troops, while fighting has also flared in border areas with more established ethnic rebel groups. Also read | ASEAN envoy says urged restraint from Myanmar military, discussed Aung San Suu Kyi access Presiding over the annual parade that showcased tanks, truck-mounted missiles, artillery and troops on horseback, Min Aung Hlaing told some 8,000 assembled security personnel that the army would not let up. The military will "no longer negotiate... and annihilate until the end" groups fighting to overturn its rule, he said ahead of the Armed Forces Day procession in army-built capital Naypyidaw. Jets flew overhead trailing the yellow, red and green of the national flag, while state media showed women lining the streets leading to the parade ground to give flowers and place garlands on the marching soldiers. Meanwhile, anti-coup protesters called on social media for a national "power strike" demonstration on Sunday evening. Bloodiest Day Armed Forces Day commemorates the start of local resistance to the Japanese occupation during World War II, and usually features a military parade attended by foreign officers and diplomats. Last year, as new junta chief Min Aung Hlaing inspected the parade, troops brutalised those protesting the coup that had ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government. Also read | Rohingya in Bangladesh cheer US decision on Myanmar 'genocide' The violence was the bloodiest day so far in the military's crackdown on democracy rallies and left 163 protesters dead, according to a local monitoring group, and sparked widespread international condemnation. The junta has become increasingly isolated, with Cambodian strongman Hun Sen the only foreign leader to visit since the putsch. The vice defence minister of Russia -- a major arms supplier and ally -- had been due to attend this year's parade but was unable to because of his "country's affairs", junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun said. In February a UN expert on Myanmar said Russia -- along with other major ally China -- was continuing to supply the military with weapons, including fighter jets and armoured vehicles. The United States and Britain on Friday announced new sanctions against Myanmar's army. The new measures came days after Washington said it has concluded that the country's military committed genocide against the mostly Muslim Rohingya minority. Since the putsch more than 1,700 people have been killed in a military crackdown on dissent, according to a local monitoring group. Watch | Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

Myanmar army says will 'annihilate' coup opponents on crackdown anniversary

Saying she saw with her own eyes her two daughters killed by the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military, Rahima Khatun is hopeful the US designation of the 2017 onslaught against the&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;as "genocide" will bring some justice.

The girls, thrown into a burning house as their village was razed to the ground, were among thousands of victims of a brutal crackdown against&nbsp;Myanmar's long-marginalised Muslim minority.

Myanmar's junta denies the allegations and the case is currently being heard at the United Nations' highest court at The Hague, but the US declaration has provided hope for justice among many&nbsp;Rohingya.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-junta-categorically-rejects-us-allegation-of-rohingya-genocide-464692">Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide</a>

"The&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military slaughtered and raped women. One day they came and threw our children alive into the fire. My two daughters were among them," said Khatun, 52, tears rolling down her cheeks at a refugee camp in&nbsp;Bangladesh.

The crackdown prompted an exodus of about 740,000 people into&nbsp;Bangladesh, joining more than 100,000 others who had fled earlier waves of violence.

They live in a vast network of squalid camps made up of bamboo shacks, refusing to return home until&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;ensures the rights of the&nbsp;Rohingya.

Washington said this week there was clear evidence of an attempt at the "destruction" of the minority group.

Community leaders in the camps, activists and victims told AFP that the US move would bring&nbsp;Myanmar's military to account and -- perhaps -- allow them to go back and rebuild their villages and lives across the border.

"We have been waiting for a long time for this day. The US is the world's most powerful nation. Their&nbsp;decision&nbsp;will reverberate across the world. Maybe we'll get justice soon," local leader Sayed Ullah told AFP.

Ullah, 33, who heads a&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;rights group in the camps, also lost several relatives and dozens of fellow villagers during the 2017 offensive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-armenia-to-myanmar-accusations-of-genocide-in-the-past-464634">From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past</a>

Young&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;activist Sawyeddollah, 23, said news of the US&nbsp;decision&nbsp;spread like wildfire through the settlements, with people sharing video of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's speech&nbsp;on&nbsp;cellphones.

"I hope the Biden administration will create a quick tribunal to go for action to implement their&nbsp;decision," Sawyeddollah said.

"America didn't say anything all these years. But yesterday's&nbsp;decision&nbsp;made all of us very happy," said Robi Ullah, 45, another refugee.

Siraj Ullah, 65, said he offered prayers to God to express gratitude to the United States.&nbsp;

"I hope they (the US) can ensure our repatriation as early as possible. If we get all of our rights back we are agreed to go back to our homeland instantly," Ullah told AFP.

No genocidal intent

Myanmar's junta&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday said it "categorically rejects" the US declaration.

"Myanmar&nbsp;has never engaged in any genocidal actions and does not have any genocidal intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, racial or religious group or any other group," it said.

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Bangladesh, which has borne the brunt of sheltering the refugees, called the US&nbsp;decision&nbsp;overdue but still "good news", and said it would strengthen the case against&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;at the International Court of Justice.

"I believe, hopefully after the statement of the US Secretary of State, they (Washington) will also put more pressure&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;government so that they take back their people as they have already promised,"&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen said.

He added however that&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;was continuing to stall repatriation efforts, most recently by issuing a list of 700&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;who could return which he said was "defective" and likely to be rejected by the&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;community.

"The way the list is prepared, it feels like it lacks goodwill and smacks of ulterior motives," he said.

Mohammad Zafar, another&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;community leader in Kutupalong, the biggest of the refugee camps -- and the largest in the world -- played down the prospect of returning home any time soon.

"I highly doubt whether it will bring any change to our fate. We are literally stranded in a foreign land for years, barely surviving," he said.

"The damage has been done to us. Nothing can compensate unless there are visible actions," Zafar told AFP.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-committed-genocide-against-rohingya-says-us-but-what-is-genocide-464662/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Saying she saw with her own eyes her two daughters killed by the Myanmar military, Rahima Khatun is hopeful the US designation of the 2017 onslaught against the Rohingya as "genocide" will bring some justice.

Saying she saw with her own eyes her two daughters killed by the Myanmar military, Rahima Khatun is hopeful the US designation of the 2017 onslaught against the Rohingya as "genocide" will bring some justice. The girls, thrown into a burning house as their village was razed to the ground, were among thousands of victims of a brutal crackdown against Myanmar's long-marginalised Muslim minority. Myanmar's junta denies the allegations and the case is currently being heard at the United Nations' highest court at The Hague, but the US declaration has provided hope for justice among many Rohingya. Also read | Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide "The Myanmar military slaughtered and raped women. One day they came and threw our children alive into the fire. My two daughters were among them," said Khatun, 52, tears rolling down her cheeks at a refugee camp in Bangladesh. The crackdown prompted an exodus of about 740,000 people into Bangladesh, joining more than 100,000 others who had fled earlier waves of violence. They live in a vast network of squalid camps made up of bamboo shacks, refusing to return home until Myanmar ensures the rights of the Rohingya. Washington said this week there was clear evidence of an attempt at the "destruction" of the minority group. Community leaders in the camps, activists and victims told AFP that the US move would bring Myanmar's military to account and -- perhaps -- allow them to go back and rebuild their villages and lives across the border. "We have been waiting for a long time for this day. The US is the world's most powerful nation. Their decision will reverberate across the world. Maybe we'll get justice soon," local leader Sayed Ullah told AFP. Ullah, 33, who heads a Rohingya rights group in the camps, also lost several relatives and dozens of fellow villagers during the 2017 offensive. Also read | From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past Young Rohingya activist Sawyeddollah, 23, said news of the US decision spread like wildfire through the settlements, with people sharing video of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's speech on cellphones. "I hope the Biden administration will create a quick tribunal to go for action to implement their decision," Sawyeddollah said. "America didn't say anything all these years. But yesterday's decision made all of us very happy," said Robi Ullah, 45, another refugee. Siraj Ullah, 65, said he offered prayers to God to express gratitude to the United States. "I hope they (the US) can ensure our repatriation as early as possible. If we get all of our rights back we are agreed to go back to our homeland instantly," Ullah told AFP. No genocidal intent Myanmar's junta on Tuesday said it "categorically rejects" the US declaration. "Myanmar has never engaged in any genocidal actions and does not have any genocidal intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, racial or religious group or any other group," it said. Also read | United States determines Myanmar army committed genocide against Rohingya Bangladesh, which has borne the brunt of sheltering the refugees, called the US decision overdue but still "good news", and said it would strengthen the case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. "I believe, hopefully after the statement of the US Secretary of State, they (Washington) will also put more pressure on the Myanmar government so that they take back their people as they have already promised," Bangladesh Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen said. He added however that Myanmar was continuing to stall repatriation efforts, most recently by issuing a list of 700 Rohingya who could return which he said was "defective" and likely to be rejected by the Rohingya community. "The way the list is prepared, it feels like it lacks goodwill and smacks of ulterior motives," he said. Mohammad Zafar, another Rohingya community leader in Kutupalong, the biggest of the refugee camps -- and the largest in the world -- played down the prospect of returning home any time soon. "I highly doubt whether it will bring any change to our fate. We are literally stranded in a foreign land for years, barely surviving," he said. "The damage has been done to us. Nothing can compensate unless there are visible actions," Zafar told AFP. Watch | Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

Rohingya in Bangladesh cheer US decision on Myanmar 'genocide'

Myanmar military junta on Tuesday said that it "categorically rejects" the US allegation that its armed forces committed genocide against Rohingya Muslims five years ago.&nbsp;

Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya fled Buddhist-majority Myanmar following the 2017 crackdown, which is now the subject of a genocide case at the United Nations' highest court in The Hague.

On Monday, the US declared officially that violence against Rohingya community amounted to genocide. The US said that there was clear evidence of an attempt to "destroy" the group.

Myanmar's junta-appointed foreign ministry slammed the declaration as "far from reality" in a statement on Tuesday.

"Myanmar has never engaged in any genocidal actions and does not have any genocidal intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, racial or religious group or any other group," it said, as quoted by AFP

Around 850,000 Rohingya are languishing in camps in neighbouring Bangladesh, recounting mass killings and rape during the crackdown.

Another 600,000 members of the community remain in Myanmar's Rakhine state where they report widespread oppression. 
Since ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's government last year, the junta has doubled down on widespread perceptions that the Rohingya are interlopers from Bangladesh and continues to deny them citizenship, rights and access to services.

Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing -- who was head of the armed forces during the 2017 crackdown -- has dismissed the word Rohingya as "an imaginary term".

(With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar military junta on Tuesday said that it "categorically rejects" the US allegation that its armed forces committed genocide against Rohingya Muslims five years ago.

Myanmar military junta on Tuesday said that it "categorically rejects" the US allegation that its armed forces committed genocide against Rohingya Muslims five years ago. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya fled Buddhist-majority Myanmar following the 2017 crackdown, which is now the subject of a genocide case at the United Nations' highest court in The Hague. On Monday, the US declared officially that violence against Rohingya community amounted to genocide. The US said that there was clear evidence of an attempt to "destroy" the group. Myanmar's junta-appointed foreign ministry slammed the declaration as "far from reality" in a statement on Tuesday. "Myanmar has never engaged in any genocidal actions and does not have any genocidal intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, racial or religious group or any other group," it said, as quoted by AFP Around 850,000 Rohingya are languishing in camps in neighbouring Bangladesh, recounting mass killings and rape during the crackdown. Another 600,000 members of the community remain in Myanmar's Rakhine state where they report widespread oppression. Since ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's government last year, the junta has doubled down on widespread perceptions that the Rohingya are interlopers from Bangladesh and continues to deny them citizenship, rights and access to services. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing -- who was head of the armed forces during the 2017 crackdown -- has dismissed the word Rohingya as "an imaginary term". (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide

US claimed Myanmar military's attacks on Rohingya in 2016 and 2017 was a GENOCIDE. Antony Blinken said there was 'clear intent' to destroy Muslim minority. As US called out mass atrocities against Rohingya" and delared it as genocide, the question is - what is a genocide?

Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

The United States has formally determined that violence committed against the Rohingya minority by Myanmar's military amounts to genocide and crimes against humanity, an official told news agencies.&nbsp;

As per the reports, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is due to officially announce the decision to designate that crackdown a genocide in remarks at the Holocaust Museum in Washington on Monday. In the museum, an exhibit on "Burma's Path to Genocide" is on display. Burma is the former name for the country.&nbsp;

As per the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Rohingya are one of Myanmar's many ethnic minorities. He had described the community as "one of, if not the, most discriminated people in the world".&nbsp;

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Last year in December, during a visit to Malaysia, Blinken had said that the United States was looking "very actively" at whether the treatment of the Rohingya might "constitute genocide."&nbsp;

In 2018, the State Department had released a report that detailed violence against the Rohingya in western Rakhine state as "extreme, large-scale, widespread, and seemingly geared toward both terrorizing the population and driving out the Rohingya residents."&nbsp;

In 2017, hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims started fleeing across the border into Bangladesh after a deadly crackdown by Myanmar's army.&nbsp;

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The Rohingya Muslims attempted to escape by sea or on foot after the crackdown, which was described by the United Nations as a "textbook example of ethnic cleansing".&nbsp;

Around 850,000 Rohingya are languishing in camps in neighbouring Bangladesh, recounting mass killings and rape, while another 600,000 members of the community remain in Rakhine where they report widespread oppression.&nbsp;

A legal designation of genocide - defined by the UN as acts "committed with intent to destroy, in whole or part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group" - could be followed by further sanctions and limits on aid, among other penalties against the already-isolated military junta, the New York Times reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has formally determined that violence committed against the Rohingya minority by Myanmar's military amounts to genocide and crimes against humanity, an official told news agencies.

The United States has formally determined that violence committed against the Rohingya minority by Myanmar's military amounts to genocide and crimes against humanity, an official told news agencies. As per the reports, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is due to officially announce the decision to designate that crackdown a genocide in remarks at the Holocaust Museum in Washington on Monday. In the museum, an exhibit on "Burma's Path to Genocide" is on display. Burma is the former name for the country. As per the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Rohingya are one of Myanmar's many ethnic minorities. He had described the community as "one of, if not the, most discriminated people in the world". ALSO READ | Belgian carnival crash not presumed to be militant attack, says town's mayor Last year in December, during a visit to Malaysia, Blinken had said that the United States was looking "very actively" at whether the treatment of the Rohingya might "constitute genocide." In 2018, the State Department had released a report that detailed violence against the Rohingya in western Rakhine state as "extreme, large-scale, widespread, and seemingly geared toward both terrorizing the population and driving out the Rohingya residents." In 2017, hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims started fleeing across the border into Bangladesh after a deadly crackdown by Myanmar's army. ALSO READ | Pope condemns 'slaughters and atrocities' taking place in Ukraine The Rohingya Muslims attempted to escape by sea or on foot after the crackdown, which was described by the United Nations as a "textbook example of ethnic cleansing". Around 850,000 Rohingya are languishing in camps in neighbouring Bangladesh, recounting mass killings and rape, while another 600,000 members of the community remain in Rakhine where they report widespread oppression. A legal designation of genocide - defined by the UN as acts "committed with intent to destroy, in whole or part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group" - could be followed by further sanctions and limits on aid, among other penalties against the already-isolated military junta, the New York Times reported. (With inputs from agencies)

United States determines Myanmar army committed genocide against Rohingya

The United States has formally determined that violence committed against the Rohingya minority by Myanmar's military amounts to genocide and crimes against humanity.

US determines Myanmar Junta committed genocide against Rohingya

Myanmar is the second-largest country in mainland Southeast Asia and is home to a wealth of biodiversity.

The country still retains large tracts of forest that harbour charismatic species such as the red panda and the Myanmar snub-nosed monkey.&nbsp;

International wildlife group Fauna and Flora International said at least 100 new species from monkeys to mussels, were found in Myanmar in a decade.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-species-of-crocodile-from-cretaceous-period-found-in-australia-say-scientists-453388">Also read |&nbsp;New species of crocodile who preyed on a young dinosaur found in Australia, say scientists</a>

Since 2010, researchers have made an "incredible sequence of discoveries" with the identification of the Myanmar snub-nosed monkey, a small black primate known as the "sneezing monkey."

But the organisation raised fears over a "barrage of threats", including from illegal logging, hunting, agriculture, infrastructure development and quarrying.

Over ten years, during which Myanmar's generals eased their stranglehold on power, scientists from all over the world made a beeline to the country to explore rainforests, delve into cave systems, wade through rivers and pick their way across majestic karst rock formations. &nbsp;

Scientists used measurements and samples from museum collections to compare and identify key differences with features of the newly discovered animals and plants, the report said.

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Identifying new species is tricky, though, and sometimes can only be determined using a variety of methods, such as frog calls and genetic data.

A new type of begonia with reddish flowers and a berry-like fruit also was found in the uplands of Myanmar, where illegal mining and logging have become an increasingly dire threat in the country, which is in the midst of political turmoil after a military takeover a year ago.

The military has been battling militias allied with a parallel National Unity Government (NUG), which last year called for a nationwide revolt and has been outlawed by the junta.

With field operations already suspended because of the Covid-19 pandemic, FFI's Acting Country Manager Ngwe Lwin said the team was focusing on existing conservation programmes with Myanmar partner Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Association.

Myanmar is also home to some of Southeast Asia’s most extensive and least disturbed coastal and marine ecosystems, which include coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds. All told, over 800 marine fish species are found here, as well as nine seagrass species and 51 corals.

In stark contrast to the country’s biological riches, at least a third of its people currently live below the poverty line and the majority depend on natural resources for their survival.

The United Nations Development Programme has estimated that nearly half of Myanmar's 55 million population will be living below the national poverty line this year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar is the second-largest country in mainland Southeast Asia and is home to a wealth of biodiversity. The country still retains large tracts of forest that harbour charismatic species such as the red panda and the Myanmar snub-nosed monkey.

Myanmar is the second-largest country in mainland Southeast Asia and is home to a wealth of biodiversity. The country still retains large tracts of forest that harbour charismatic species such as the red panda and the Myanmar snub-nosed monkey. International wildlife group Fauna and Flora International said at least 100 new species from monkeys to mussels, were found in Myanmar in a decade. Also read | New species of crocodile who preyed on a young dinosaur found in Australia, say scientists Since 2010, researchers have made an "incredible sequence of discoveries" with the identification of the Myanmar snub-nosed monkey, a small black primate known as the "sneezing monkey." But the organisation raised fears over a "barrage of threats", including from illegal logging, hunting, agriculture, infrastructure development and quarrying. Over ten years, during which Myanmar's generals eased their stranglehold on power, scientists from all over the world made a beeline to the country to explore rainforests, delve into cave systems, wade through rivers and pick their way across majestic karst rock formations. Scientists used measurements and samples from museum collections to compare and identify key differences with features of the newly discovered animals and plants, the report said. Also read | New species of carnivorous dinosaur with short arms discovered in Argentina, say scientists Identifying new species is tricky, though, and sometimes can only be determined using a variety of methods, such as frog calls and genetic data. A new type of begonia with reddish flowers and a berry-like fruit also was found in the uplands of Myanmar, where illegal mining and logging have become an increasingly dire threat in the country, which is in the midst of political turmoil after a military takeover a year ago. The military has been battling militias allied with a parallel National Unity Government (NUG), which last year called for a nationwide revolt and has been outlawed by the junta. With field operations already suspended because of the Covid-19 pandemic, FFI's Acting Country Manager Ngwe Lwin said the team was focusing on existing conservation programmes with Myanmar partner Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Association. Myanmar is also home to some of Southeast Asia’s most extensive and least disturbed coastal and marine ecosystems, which include coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds. All told, over 800 marine fish species are found here, as well as nine seagrass species and 51 corals. In stark contrast to the country’s biological riches, at least a third of its people currently live below the poverty line and the majority depend on natural resources for their survival. The United Nations Development Programme has estimated that nearly half of Myanmar's 55 million population will be living below the national poverty line this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists discover 100 new species in 'biologically rich' Myanmar

A boat carrying more than one hundred Rohingya refugees, including dozens of children, landed on the coast of Indonesia's westernmost province Aceh early Sunday, police said.

The vessel, which sailed from a Rohingya camp in Bangladesh, arrived shortly after 3:00 am on a beach in Bireun district.&nbsp;

It was carrying 114 people, including 58 men, 21 women and 35 children aged under 15 years old, police said.&nbsp;

"We will conduct a general health check up and Covid-19 rapid antigen tests for these foreigners," local police chief Mike Hardy Wirapraja told AFP.

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He said they would later be transferred to neighbouring Lhokseumawe district which has a shelter for refugees.

Police found out about the arrival after some local fishermen reported that a boat filled with Rohingya people had landed on the beach.

The boat appeared to be in good condition and the refugees had sufficient food and supplies during the journey.

"We are originally from Myanmar but we fled to Bangladesh and we started our journey from Bangladesh," one of the refugees, Omar Faruk, told an AFP journalist, adding that the group had been at sea for 25 days.

"We left Bangladesh because the Rohingya situation at the camp is not good, it's getting very bad at the moment," the 11-year-old said in English.

Faruk said he left his mother in Bangladesh and followed his uncle to start a new life, preferably in a Muslim majority country like Indonesia or Malaysia.

"We left Bangladesh to this country to make a beautiful future... I have no father, only one uncle and my mom is still in Bangladesh. I came here because I want to improve my education," he added.

It is the second arrival by the persecuted minority in Muslim-majority Indonesia in the recent months.

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More than 100 Rohingya also arrived in Bireun in late December after drifting for days before the Indonesian government eventually allowed them to land and dragged their stricken boat to shore.

Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims have fled Buddhist-majority Myanmar since 2017 after a military crackdown that refugees said included mass killings and rape.&nbsp;

Most live in cramped camps in Bangladesh, where human traffickers run lucrative operations promising to find them sanctuary abroad.

Each year hundreds of Rohingya make perilous, months-long journeys from refugee camps in Bangladesh to Southeast Asia. Relatively affluent Malaysia is usually the favoured destination, but they also end up in Indonesia.

A boat carrying more than one hundred Rohingya refugees, including dozens of children, landed on the coast of Indonesia's westernmost province Aceh early Sunday, police said.

A boat carrying more than one hundred Rohingya refugees, including dozens of children, landed on the coast of Indonesia's westernmost province Aceh early Sunday, police said. The vessel, which sailed from a Rohingya camp in Bangladesh, arrived shortly after 3:00 am on a beach in Bireun district. It was carrying 114 people, including 58 men, 21 women and 35 children aged under 15 years old, police said. "We will conduct a general health check up and Covid-19 rapid antigen tests for these foreigners," local police chief Mike Hardy Wirapraja told AFP. Also read | 'This will be a war crime': Ukraine warns Russia preparing to shell port city Odessa He said they would later be transferred to neighbouring Lhokseumawe district which has a shelter for refugees. Police found out about the arrival after some local fishermen reported that a boat filled with Rohingya people had landed on the beach. The boat appeared to be in good condition and the refugees had sufficient food and supplies during the journey. "We are originally from Myanmar but we fled to Bangladesh and we started our journey from Bangladesh," one of the refugees, Omar Faruk, told an AFP journalist, adding that the group had been at sea for 25 days. "We left Bangladesh because the Rohingya situation at the camp is not good, it's getting very bad at the moment," the 11-year-old said in English. Faruk said he left his mother in Bangladesh and followed his uncle to start a new life, preferably in a Muslim majority country like Indonesia or Malaysia. "We left Bangladesh to this country to make a beautiful future... I have no father, only one uncle and my mom is still in Bangladesh. I came here because I want to improve my education," he added. It is the second arrival by the persecuted minority in Muslim-majority Indonesia in the recent months. Also read | Saudi Arabia and Indonesia: Clashing visions of 'moderate Islam' More than 100 Rohingya also arrived in Bireun in late December after drifting for days before the Indonesian government eventually allowed them to land and dragged their stricken boat to shore. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims have fled Buddhist-majority Myanmar since 2017 after a military crackdown that refugees said included mass killings and rape. Most live in cramped camps in Bangladesh, where human traffickers run lucrative operations promising to find them sanctuary abroad. Each year hundreds of Rohingya make perilous, months-long journeys from refugee camps in Bangladesh to Southeast Asia. Relatively affluent Malaysia is usually the favoured destination, but they also end up in Indonesia.

Rohingya boat with dozens of children lands in Indonesia's Aceh

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