Thailand proposes informal talks on Myanmar crisis in December

Thailand proposed hosting informal consultations in December to address the crisis in Myanmar, as announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Spokesperson Nikorndej Balankur revealed the offer during an online press conference coinciding with the first day of the ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Vientiane.

“Our proposal is backed by Laos [the current ASEAN chair] and Malaysia [the incoming chair], so we believe this informal consultation will take place.”

ASEAN leaders, during a retreat session at the summit, identified the Myanmar crisis as a primary concern, expressing a collective desire for peace in the country.

The leaders also called on all involved parties, particularly the armed forces and security apparatus, to de-escalate and stop targeting civilians, according to a statement issued after the retreat.

The five-point consensus peace plan for Myanmar agreed upon months after the 2021 coup, has seen little progress. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing was part of the agreement but has largely ignored it, as the country continues to descend into civil war and economic hardship.

The junta has dismissed all requests for dialogue with the shadow government formed by supporters of the ousted elected administration, labelling them as “terrorists.”

ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn reaffirmed that the group remains committed to engaging with Myanmar.

“We need time and patience. Myanmar is such a complicated and complex issue. We should not expect a quick fix.”

The armed resistance against the military government has led to a humanitarian crisis, with an estimated 18.6 million people — over one-third of the population — in need of assistance.

Despite losing control over large areas and being stalled on multiple front lines, the junta plans to proceed with an election next year, which has been widely criticised as a sham.

ASEAN will continue advocating for inclusive political dialogue among all conflicting parties in Myanmar, while also seeking to increase humanitarian aid, reported Bangkok Post.