ASEAN leaders review Myanmar ban at Manila summit
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr announced that ASEAN will continue constructive engagement with Myanmar while the bloc reviews its five-year exclusion of military leaders from upcoming meetings in Manila.
Summit decisions on Myanmar participation
ASEAN leaders gathered in Manila from November 15 to November 17 to discuss the ongoing civil war and political turmoil since the 2021 coup. More than 100,000 people have died during this conflict involving military chief Min Aung Hlaing who ousted the elected government. Nearly half of the eleven member nations have stepped up bilateral engagement with Myanmar despite the failure to implement the Five-Point Consensus peace plan.
Regional members seek closer ties
Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia and Malaysia have welcomed Min Aung Hlaing on official visits this year. In October, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim promised to help Myanmar join the bloc again. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated that foreign ministers should participate in meetings if sufficient progress allows a decision by 2028.
Philippines chair emphasizes peace plan
During this year's summit, President Marcos Jr expects the bloc to move forward with executing its five-point peace plan for Myanmar. He stated that ASEAN will continue its constructive and principled engagement with the nation while restrictions are under review. The decision on participation rests with the foreign ministers of the entire association.
2 outlets, different leads
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Dawn
Asean faces Myanmar dilemma as some members pursue closer ties
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Business Recorder
ASEAN to continue 'constructive and principled engagement' with Myanmar, bloc's chair Philippines says
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2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.