India Should Cut Off Cooperation, Cash Flows To Military: UN Ambassador U Kyaw Moe Tun

New Delhi: Myanmar’s Envoy to the UN, Ambassador U Kyaw Moe Tun hit screens across the world when he used the three-finger salute, that traces its origin to the ‘Hunger Games’ books and movies and is used as a symbol of protest worldwide, in his General Assembly speech. On ‘Talking Point’, the diplomat explains to StratNews Global Associate Editor Amitabh P. Revi why he is challenging the military government and its February 1 coup, treason charges that he faces, the difference with the 1988 pro-democracy movement(when he was a student), and how he will continue to raise his voice at the UN as head of Myanmar’s mission.

The Permanent Representative “thanks India’s government and people for the continued support for Myanmar’s people,” but “appeals for the immediate cutting off of all defence cooperation, business, trade and cash flows to the military.” The Ambassador also calls for a review of developmental assistance as that “can also be misused” by the Tatmadaw (the official name of the armed forces). On “being sandwiched between two giant neighbours”, Kyaw Moe Tun says, “China is taking a position so as not to be seen as supporting the military.” With the independent UN Special Rapporteur, Tom Andrews cautioning he is receiving “reports indicating the situation in Myanmar is in danger of spiralling further out of control and warning of a dramatic increase in loss of life,” the Ambassador urges “urgent action, as we don’t want to lose any more innocent lives.”