Summary:

Finland will continue bilateral support to Myanmar despite accusations by the UN that Myanmar is guilty of ethnic persecution of the Rohingya people. Petri Wanner at the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs says that the human rights situation in Myanmar is being monitored closely and Finland is trying to influence it directly as well as through its partners the EU, EU member states and UN organisations. Finland is reluctant to withdraw support as it is targeted at those with the greatest needs. Developing trade relations with Myanmar has also an increasingly important role, and Team Finland is taking an export promotion trip to the country in February.

Media:  Savon Sanomat 

Date: 6.1.2017

Journalist: Sari Vanninen

Main source: Petri Wanner at the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs