ASEAN, Myanmar ministers hold informal talks on 5-point consensus

BANGKOK, July 13 (TNA) - ASEAN foreign ministers and Myanmar's foreign minister held informal talks to discuss the regional bloc's five-point consensus, marking the first in-person meeting between the two sides since 2021.

Theresa Lazaro, the Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary representing the ASEAN Chair, and Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow co-chaired the informal meeting between ASEAN foreign ministers and Myanmar's Foreign Minister Tin Maung Swe.

Lazaro stated that Myanmar remains an inseparable part of ASEAN, noting that today's meeting reflects a shared intent to support a peaceful and sustainable solution based on the five-point consensus framework. During the session, Myanmar briefed the group on its domestic situation, implementation efforts regarding the consensus, and steps taken against transnational crimes.

ASEAN reaffirmed the consensus as its primary framework and called for more concrete actions to end hostilities, particularly attacks on civilians and infrastructure. The bloc also welcomed the relocation of Aung San Suu Kyi to a designated residence, with Lazaro urging further positive developments regarding her status to facilitate inclusive political dialogue. Lazaro, in her capacity as the ASEAN Special Envoy on Myanmar, expressed readiness to visit the country to support humanitarian efforts.

Sihasak stated that Thailand supports a gradual and conditional engagement strategy to implement the consensus. He emphasized that this approach requires reciprocal efforts, where ASEAN listens to Myanmar's needs while Myanmar responds to regional and international concerns.

Sihasak outlined key ASEAN expectations, including expanding humanitarian aid delivery, reducing violence, and fostering an environment conducive to dialogue through the release of political prisoners.

Regarding Aung San Suu Kyi, the Myanmar minister assured the meeting that she is in good health and well cared for. ASEAN ministers noted that direct access to her by the Special Envoy would provide further verification. Sihasak added that Thailand remains prepared to facilitate talks between the Myanmar government and ethnic armed groups, particularly those operating along the Thai-Myanmar border. -819 (TNA)