NEW DELHI: India has abstained on a UN General Assembly (UNGA) resolution calling for an arms embargo in Myanmar, saying its views have not been reflected in the draft and New Delhi does not believe the resolution, tabled hastily, is conducive to “aiding our joint efforts towards strengthening democratic process” in the country.
The resolution was floated by Liechtenstein and was backed by most European countries, including Germany, the UK, France and the US. India was among 36 countries that abstained from voting. The resolution garnered the support of 119 countries, while Belarus was the only country that voted against it.
"The fact that there is lack of support from all neighbouring countries, as well as several countries in the region itself, should, hopefully, serve as an eye-opener to those who choose to pursue a hasty course of action," India's permanent representative to the UN TS Tirumurti said while speaking at the UNGA.
The Indian envoy said New Delhi supports the ASEAN initiative on Myanmar. "We call for the upholding the rule of law and release of detained leaders," he said. The ASEAN proposal calls for cessation of violence, special envoy of ASEAN chair for mediation of dialogue process and humanitarian assistance.
"We are firm that the path to democracy in Myanmar should continue to move forward through the process of democratic transition, which India has steadfastly supported and there can be no turning back on this," Tirumurti said. The resolution expressed ‘grave concern’ at the February 1 coup in Myanmar.