NEW YORK: United States of America expressed deep concern over deaths of women and children in violence in Rakhine State of Myanmar.

Spokesperson of US State Department Jen Psaki urged Myanmar to give nationality to Rohingyas.

In a an exclusive interview, she said: “We are deeply troubled by reports of violence in the Rakhine State. We’re saddened to hear reports that several people have been killed, many injured, at least one missing, and hundreds of civilians displaced in violence that included looting and destruction of homes and property.

We’re particularly disturbed by reports that security forces may have used excessive force in perpetuating some of the violence. We strongly condemn such acts of violence, which negatively impact all inhabitants, and note that security forces have a particular responsibility to exercise restraint and minimize violence.

And as always, we of course urge the Burmese Government to pursue durable solutions, including a path to citizenship that incorporates members of the Rohingya minority and ensuring a secure environment for displaced people to return to their home.”

BDST: 1220 HRS, JAN 18, 2014
Edited By: Abul Kalam Azad, Senior Newsroom Editor