Thailand supports Myanmar's return to ASEAN

Istanbul (ANTARA) - Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said on Wednesday (22/4) that he had met with Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing and discussed the possibility of Naypyidaw’s return to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Sihasak, who was visiting Myanmar, outlined three main objectives of the visit: to promote peace efforts, strengthen border cooperation, and encourage renewed regional engagement.

Sihasak urged Myanmar to address its concerns regarding ASEAN and stated that Thailand supports Myanmar’s return to full participation in the grouping through gradual engagement.

He also welcomed the granting of clemency to detained political figures and expressed hope that such steps would continue to support national reconciliation.

Last week, Myanmar announced that all death sentences for convicts would be commuted to life imprisonment.

This marks the first amnesty measure set by junta leader Min Aung Hlaing since assuming the presidency earlier this month.

Among those whose sentences were reduced is former President Aung San Suu Kyi, leader of the now-dissolved National League for Democracy (NLD). Suu Kyi is serving a 27-year sentence after multiple convictions totalling 33 years.

Sihasak said Bangkok is exploring efforts to enable ASEAN and international organisations to expand humanitarian aid to affected populations in Myanmar.

He called for de-escalation, urging a reduction in the use of force along the border and a full ceasefire, following an incident where Myanmar fighter jets “mistakenly dropped bombs in Thai territory.”