Tok Mat, Asean foreign ministers to visit Myanmar Sept 19

New Straits Times

2 days ago

CYBERJAYA: Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan will travel to Myanmar on Sept 19 with his counterparts from Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia to gain a clearer picture of the country's situation.
Mohamad said the visit was to demonstrate Asean unity, especially since the Philippines would be chairing the bloc in 2026.
"We want continuity so that the next chair knows what needs to be done, what actions to take. So it's not disjointed. We will continue and build on what we have done," he said.
He said the visit would also allow him to observe the country's new administration.
"They have now formed what is called the State Security and Peace Council, a committee on national peace and security. However, the highest authority remains the National Defence and Security Council. So that's what I want to observe," he said.
Myanmar's junta leader has been excluded from Asean summits since the military coup in 2021, due to the regime's failure to implement the bloc's peace roadmap.
Since then, Asean has been pushing for a diplomatic resolution to Myanmar's civil conflict.
Mohamad said he wanted to get a clear picture of the country's situation ahead of the 47th Asean Summit in October.
He added that Myanmar must deliver on its promise of an "extended and expanded ceasefire."
"They have clearly stated that Myanmar will be holding elections. That is why they have ended or chosen not to extend their state of emergency. This is in accordance with their constitution," he said.
"So, I want to discuss with them what kind of election will be held, will it be a comprehensive election? Because there are still 63 cities or areas currently still under a state of emergency."
Mohamad first said he would visit Myanmar before the 47th Asean Summit in October to meet its leaders on July 11, following the 58th Asean Foreign Ministers' Meeting.