BRUSSELS, March 10 (KUNA) -- The European Parliament Thursday "strongly condemned" the military junta's violent seizure of power in Myanmar on 1 February 2021 and the ensuing "heinous atrocities carried out against the country's population, including mass killings and other widespread human rights violations." In a resolution adopted by 646 votes in favour, 1 against and 20 abstentions, the EP calls on the military, under the leadership of Commander-in-chief Min Aung Hlaing, to fully respect the outcome of the democratic elections held in November 2020.
It also calls for the release of detained former State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and all other political prisoners, reinstating the civilian government and taking steps to establish a dialogue and reconciliation with all parties concerned.
The resolution underlines "how appalled they are over the Tatmadaw's (Burmese military) crimes against ethnic and religious groups in the country, including the Rohingya population and Christians".
It welcomes the EU's decision to introduce and expand sanctions on Myanmar as a result of the coup and subsequent repression and calls for further tougher measures. (end) nk.ibi