Thailand has signaled support for Myanmar’s return to full participation in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), urging the military-led government to take concrete steps toward peace and dialogue.

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said Bangkok is ready to serve as a “bridge” between Myanmar and ASEAN, stressing that any renewed engagement must align with the bloc’s five-point consensus, which calls for an end to violence and inclusive political talks. Myanmar has been barred from high-level ASEAN meetings since the 2021 military coup.

Speaking after informal talks with Myanmar Foreign Minister Than Swe in Phuket, Phuangketkeow said progress on internal dialogue, humanitarian access and reduced attacks on civilians would help pave the way for reintegration. He added that peace efforts must originate within Myanmar, with Thailand willing to facilitate local-level contacts, particularly along the two countries’ 2,400-kilometer border.

The two sides also discussed strengthening border cooperation to tackle transnational crime.

According to Anadolu Ajansı, ethnic clashes have intensified across Myanmar in recent years, leaving thousands dead and displacing nearly three million people amid ongoing conflict between the junta and resistance groups.

Thailand said lasting stability in Myanmar would bolster its own national security and economic ties, underscoring the regional stakes of the prolonged crisis.

BOB Post