Kuala lumpur: Thailand will continue to urge Myanmar’s authorities to ensure that its election, planned for the end of this year, is conducted in an inclusive manner, involving all stakeholders and the people of the country. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow emphasised that the election should form part of a continuous peace process that promotes dialogue and leads to lasting peace.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sihasak stated that Thailand would persist in encouraging the government in Naypyidaw to make elections inclusive while engaging in dialogue before the election. He stressed that the election is not the final goal but should be part of a broader peace process aimed at reconciliation for enduring peace. Sihasak remarked that this year is crucial for Myanmar’s peace, as the election’s outcome will dictate whether the country moves toward reconciliation and stability or further division and unrest.

Myanmar’s authorities have scheduled an election for December 28, despite calls to prioritise national peace and stability efforts. Sihasak, currently attending the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Malaysia, advocated for ASEAN leaders to consider appointing a permanent special envoy on Myanmar to address the ongoing crisis. He suggested that discussions on the envoy’s role and mandate should occur during the summit in Kuala Lumpur.

The Thai foreign minister highlighted the importance of regional attention to Myanmar’s instability, which affects not only its people but also the broader ASEAN region, including security along the Myanmar-Thailand border. Sihasak warned that mishandling the crisis could impact ASEAN’s centrality and credibility.

Sihasak also urged exploration of better support for implementing the Five-Point Consensus (5PC), a roadmap endorsed by ASEAN leaders in April 2021 to restore peace and stability in Myanmar following the February 2021 coup. Despite its endorsement, progress on the plan has been limited due to military authorities’ resistance to dialogue and peace efforts.

The Myanmar crisis and its planned elections are expected to be key agenda items during the ASEAN Summit. Malaysia, holding the ASEAN chairmanship under the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’, is hosting the 47th ASEAN Summit from October 26 to October 28 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.