ASEAN Foreign Ministers to Meet Myanmar Counterpart in Bangkok

Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are scheduled to convene an informal meeting with their counterpart from Myanmar in Bangkok on July 12. This gathering is seen as a significant step in engaging with Myanmar's new army-backed government, which came to power following an election earlier in the year.

Vietnam's foreign ministry spokesperson, Pham Thu Hang, stated that the Bangkok meeting presents an "opportunity for ASEAN foreign ministers to directly exchange views, strengthen cooperation, and promote reconciliation dialogue in Myanmar." Thailand's foreign ministry also confirmed the meeting, highlighting its importance in fostering dialogue.

The meeting takes place amidst the ongoing civil war in Myanmar, which has caused widespread devastation, claimed over 100,000 lives, and displaced millions. ASEAN had previously distanced itself from Myanmar's military junta after its failure to adhere to the bloc's "five-point consensus" peace plan. However, several member states have recently shifted their approach.

This engagement follows Myanmar's former junta chief and current president, Min Aung Hlaing, making his first visit to an ASEAN member state since assuming his civilian role, with a trip to Laos last week. The new administration in Myanmar is reportedly seeking the lifting of a ban that has prevented its leaders from participating in ASEAN summits since the 2021 military coup.

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The meetings in Bangkok is an opportunity for ASEAN foreign ministers to directly exchange views, strengthen cooperation, and promote reconciliation dialogue in Myanmar.