Myanmar's detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi meets Red Cross official

Myanmar's detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi met with a representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on Monday, raising hopes about the health and well-being of the 81-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner. Suu Kyi has been in detention since February 2021, following the military coup that ousted her elected civilian government.

The meeting took place in the capital, Naypyitaw, with Arnaud de Baecque, the ICRC's Resident Representative to Myanmar. The ICRC confirmed the visit, stating it adhered to their standards for visiting individuals deprived of liberty, including private conversations. This marks the first independent proof of her being alive for her son, Kim Aris, in over five years.

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It’s the first independent proof that I’ve had that she’s actually alive for a long time now. So it’s extremely meaningful.

Suu Kyi's exact whereabouts and health condition have been difficult to ascertain since her detention. International bodies and regional countries have repeatedly requested access to her, but such requests have largely been denied. The military junta has provided limited information about her status, fueling international concern.

While Aris expressed cautious optimism, he urged continued international pressure on Myanmar to release Suu Kyi and other political prisoners. He noted that the ICRC was unable to have a physician examine his mother, but she appeared to be in good health and spirits. The United Nations has also taken note of the ICRC announcement, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue in Myanmar.

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This included the opportunity to speak with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in private.