The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) met Myanmar's military leader Min Aung Hlaing in the capital Nay Pyi Taw on Thursday, the first between the military leader and such a senior international representative since the February 1 takeover.

Peter Maurer requested the resumption of ICRC prison visits and more humanitarian access to conflict areas during the meeting. 

Maurer also urged an end to violence against civilians and respect for international law and medical workers during security operations by the military's security forces.

The military chief had not refused Maurer's request, according to people familiar with the meeting.