Statement on United States Department of the Treasury’s Announcement of Sanctions Against the Junta’s Ministry of Defence, and its controlled Myanma Foreign Trade Bank and Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank
Republic of the Union of Myanmar
National Unity Government
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Statement (14/2023)
22 June 2023
Statement on United States Department of the Treasury’s Announcement of Sanctions Against the Junta’s Ministry of Defence, and its controlled Myanma Foreign Trade Bank and Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank
The National Unity Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar warmly welcomes the United States Department of the Treasury’s announcement of sanctions against the terrorist military’s Ministry of Defence as well as the two financial institutions under its control; Myanma Foreign Trade Bank (MFTB) and Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank (MICB).
Announced on 21 June 2023, the new measures target the junta’s Ministry of Defence that perpetrates a campaign of terror against the people of Myanmar and financial institutions that play a significant role in providing financial resources for those terrorist acts. These financial institutions have been crucial in facilitating the junta’s revenue-generating state-owned enterprises to easily access international markets and in procuring arms and munitions from the global markets, including the sanctioned Russian entities, leading to an escalation of oppression of the junta against the people.
Frustrated by the people’s unwavering belief in democratic values, resilience, strong faith and support for the revolution and by its own failure to seize power, the terrorist military has escalated its brutal and destructive tactics. These include the acquisition and utilization of weapons from the global markets, resulting in an alarming increase in the targeting and killings of innocent civilians and the destruction of villages, schools, hospitals and religious buildings.
On March 24, the United States imposed sanctions on two individuals and six entities that facilitate jet fuel import, storage and distribution to the junta. In February, the European Union imposed a sixth round of sanctions that targeted the junta’s oil and gas revenues, building on earlier measures aimed at stripping the junta of access to arms, munitions and dual-use items.
The National Unity Government would like to extend gratitude to the Government and People of the United States of America for their sustained commitment and strong support towards promoting peace, justice, freedom, and democracy within Myanmar. This action not only supports the people’s pursuit of establishing a free, democratic, and federal Union but also contributes towards regional stability. We also call for the international community to take similar measures to expedite the realization of our shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous Myanmar that harmoniously coexists with our neighbouring nations.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
National Unity Government
