Myanmar and ASEAN

We wish to give clarification on AFP's Mr. Lescot's report on Myanmar (The Jakarta Post, Feb. 7, 1995).

From our freedom in 1948 to today, all Myanmar governments have consistently and sincerely pursued relations with other countries on the basis of the five principles of peaceful co- existence, and the principles of the UN Charter; the fundamentals of which are non-interference, sovereignty, mutual-benefit, Equality and mutual respect.

This implies that no "superior" or distorted comments are made about another sovereign nation and its government. All ASEAN Nations adhere to these principles, which are also ASEAN principles, in their bilateral relations. Even the press in the ASEAN countries abide by these unwritten rules, and the courtesies are also extended to other non-member, but important, Asian nations. We assume this to be an Asian self-regulatory process.

Though my government has not applied as yet to join ASEAN we consider ourselves to be very much a Southeast Asian nation, and systematic steps will be taken toward a 10-member ASEAN in the future. Then, it will not only benefit Myanmar but also ASEAN, its member-states and the region equally.

The strength of ASEAN is contained in the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation. We unfailingly apply these principles in our external relations; especially with our neighbors. Our culture and traditions impel us to follow this policy; "Let amity be eternal, and enmity ephemeral".

It is clear that ASEAN, and its member nations, speak for and on behalf of ASEAN. Some media attempt to distort that by selective interviews and quotations. This gives an erroneous picture and magnifies the views of small but vocal interest groups in some ASEAN countries who often speak on behalf of other interest groups external to the region.

U NYI NYI THAN

Ambassador

Myanmar Embassy

Jakarta