Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno: ASEAN will progress if it can ensure a peaceful solution for Myanmar

Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said ASEAN can only move forward with full force if it can ensure a peaceful and lasting solution in Myanmar, which is still in crisis after
“The Indonesian chairmanship has worked hard to push for a unified ASEAN solution,” Retno said at the opening of the Southeast Asia bloc meeting at the ASEAN Secretariat, South Jakarta, on Monday, September 4, 2023.
Myanmar has been beset by violence and economic turmoil since the military seized power in a 2021 coup. The Tatmadaw, the country’s military, has launched a crackdown on its opponents.
ASEAN, since the end of 2021 has banned the Myanmar military junta from attending high-level meetings until significant progress is seen in resolving the crisis, which is known as the five point of consensus. The foreign minister of Myanmar was not present at the meeting this Monday, 4 September 2023.

Retno stated, at today’s ASEAN meeting

the foreign ministers would conduct a comprehensive review of the implementation of ASEAN’s five-point consensus. The results will be recommended for a summit of Southeast Asian leaders which will start tomorrow.
ASEAN’s five-point consensus for Myanmar includes an immediate end to the violence; organizing dialogue between all parties; appointment of special envoys; allowing humanitarian assistance from ASEAN; and allowing a special.
When asked about this in a special interview with Tempo on Tuesday, August 29, 2023. Minister Retno said ASEAN would not review the points of consensus that had been agreed upon. But ASEAN would continue to review the implementation of this solution by the Myanmar junta which also agreed. A number of parties consider that the peaceful solution formulated by ASEAN has not worked. Effectively and observers have suggested that there be a review of the consensus points, to ensure a sustainable solution.

As president of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations for 9 months

Indonesia has launched a quiet attempt to make a breakthrough in resolving this crisis. Around 145 meetings with all parties including the military junta. The National Unity Government or NUG, and ethnic groups. Have been by Indonesia – including those attend face to face by the foreign minister himself. Apart from discussing Myanmar, today’s ministerial meeting will also discuss long-term priorities to strengthening ASEAN institution. Strengthening partnerships. And the bloc’s role in the dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region. Which has recently become the center of major tensions between the two superpowers, the United States and China.

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