Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

I think we all remain deeply concerned about the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in Myanmar. We continue to condemn the regime's brutal behaviour at every opportunity, including in our regional and international advocacy. We will continue to advocate for the release of the remaining political prisoners, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. We will continue to speak up for human rights in our region, and that means we will continue to engage with those who do not agree with us.

I did decide to directly engage with the Myanmar military regime, in order to seek to secure Professor Turnell's release. I did so not because we agree with them but because we have to deal with the world as it is but seek to shape it for the better. That is why this government will continue to support the humanitarian response in Myanmar and Bangladesh, including $135 million this financial year to assist with the delivery of life-saving food, water, shelter and other essential protections. (Time expired)