21-4-2024 (JAKARTA) In a statement issued on April 19, the foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) expressed profound concern over the recent escalation of violence in Myanmar, notably in the town of Myawaddy in Kayin State and Rakhine State, where thousands have been rendered homeless.
The ministers’ statement urgently called upon all parties involved in the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and exercise maximum restraint in the border areas of Myanmar. Emphasizing the need to avert further humanitarian consequences resulting from escalating conflicts, ASEAN urged all sides to uphold international humanitarian principles and take necessary measures to alleviate tensions and ensure the protection and safety of civilians.
The statement also highlighted the urgency of mitigating the impact of the conflict on civilians, including creating a safe and conducive environment to ensure the timely and safe delivery of humanitarian aid across Myanmar.
ASEAN expressed its support for the continuous efforts of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre), as well as the cross-border humanitarian initiatives undertaken by Thailand, in line with the Five-Point Consensus. The ministers also underscored the importance of coordinating with Laos, the incoming ASEAN Chair for 2024, through its special envoy to Myanmar.
Furthermore, the statement called for facilitating humanitarian aid activities and promoting comprehensive national dialogue aimed at achieving a long-term and comprehensive political solution to the crisis in Myanmar.
