During his first visit to Kachin State the U.S. Ambassador, Scot Marciel, told internally displaced persons (IDPs) that he would report to the U.S. government on their situation and think of ways he can help them.
The ambassador arrived in Myitkyina for a three-day visit to Kachin State on 26 September and met with the Kachin State Chief Minister Dr Khat Aung and officials from the Kachin State government before visiting the Mai Nar Kachin Baptist Convention (KBC) IDP camp.
During his meeting with the IDPs at the camp he told them that he would submit a report on what he had seen at the camp and the difficulties faced by the IDPs and local residents to the authorities, including the U.S. Government. He also told them that he would think about ways he could assist them in solving their issues.
Kachin State Chief Minister Dr Khat Aung said that during his meeting with the Kachin State Government the ambassador discussed peace and drug issues.
The ambassador also met representatives from Myitkyina-based international organisations that are carrying out mine removal.
Later during his visit the ambassador will meet with Kachin State civil society organisations (CSOs).
The U.S. Embassy in Rangoon issued a statement that said the ambassador had visited the IDP camp and had “reaffirmed continued U.S. engagement to support Myanmar’s efforts to achieve peace and national reconciliation and support for humanitarian aid efforts.”
Translated by Thida Linn
Edited in English by Mark Inkey for BNI
