SEPANG: Thailand hopes the 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits will provide a platform to advance peace dialogue on Myanmar, while also concluding Thai–Cambodia discussions to strengthen bilateral relations, says Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow.
“Well, of course, for Thailand, we expect to conclude discussions with Cambodia to address the current situation and move forward in our relationship. That is one expectation.
“I’m also confident that the situation in Myanmar will feature prominently in the discussions, as they are scheduled to hold an election this year. We would like to see a credible election that contributes to peace, so these issues will certainly be addressed,” he told Bernama upon his arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport today.
Sihasak, who was appointed to the position on Sept 19, stressed the importance of strengthening Asean’s mechanisms and unity to confront shared challenges.
“This summit is taking place against a backdrop of numerous global crises. Within Asean, we must be prepared for the challenges we face. We hope to explore ways to strengthen Asean, its mechanisms, and the Asean Way,” he said.
On July 28, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim hosted a high-stakes meeting in Putrajaya between Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, successfully defusing tensions along the two countries’ shared border.
The ceasefire, widely regarded as a major Asean achievement, prevented a broader military escalation and ensured the safety of thousands of civilians.
Myanmar’s situation presents a more complex challenge. The country’s civil war involves some 20 ethnic armed groups, many of which have been fighting for autonomy or independence since 1948. With over 135 recognised ethnic groups and competing visions of governance, the path to peace remains challenging.
Malaysia, holding the Asean chairmanship this year under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, will host the 47th Asean Summit from Oct 26 to 28 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
This marks the fifth time Malaysia has assumed the Asean chair since the bloc’s inception in 1967, following previous chairmanships in 1977, 1997, 2005, and 2015.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
