Suu Kyi Warns of Investment Risks Amid Myanmar's Ethnic Violence
Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar's opposition leader, has addressed the international community regarding the country's ethnic violence and its impact on investments. She emphasized the importance of understanding the root causes of communal conflicts and the need for a strong rule of law.
Suu Kyi acknowledged the recent religious violence, mainly targeting Rohingya Muslims, which has claimed over 250 lives and displaced over 140,000 since June 2012. She called on the international community to look beyond the surface and comprehend the deeper issues driving these conflicts.
She also expressed concern that communal violence and weak rule of law could deter investors, despite Myanmar's rapid reforms. Suu Kyi advised investors to maintain a cautious optimism and continue making responsible investments in the country. She cited protracted insurgencies, inter-ethnic conflicts, and lack of robust laws as major challenges to Myanmar's development. Suu Kyi noted that while ceasefires have been achieved, peace settlements have not, and communal tensions persist.
Aung San Suu Kyi is planning to run for president in 2015 and has emphasized the importance of addressing ethnic violence and strengthening the rule of law to attract investments and maintain peace in Myanmar. Despite the challenges, she encourages investors to remain optimistic about the country's reforms.
