US concerned over continuing violence in Myanmar

The US today expressed concern over continuing violence in Myanmar and called on all the parties to work towards restoring calm, fostering dialogue and increasing tolerance in a manner, which respects human rights and due process of law.
"We're deeply concerned about continuing reports of communal violence, loss of life and widespread property damage in and around central Burma's Meiktila Township in the Mandalay region," State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland told reporters.
The US extend its deep condolences to those affected by this violence, including the families of the victims.
"We welcome and encourage the efforts of government authorities and community leaders, civil society and political party leaders to restore calm, to foster dialogue and to increase tolerance in a manner that respects human rights and due process of law," Nuland said.

US Ambassador to Myanmar Derek Mitchell has raised his concerns directly with senior government officials, and the embassy has also been in close touch with community leaders, she noted.
"We're encouraging all sides to call for calm, to foster dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect," she added.