Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged Myanmar's junta leader, and the government-in-exile, to extend the ceasefire and to end internal conflicts, to enable humanitarian efforts to assist people affected by the devastating earthquake last month, which killed thousands.
Anwar said he has received indications from both sides that they are committed to extending the ceasefire, which is a precondition for the provision of assistance.
Anwar, who is this year’s chair of ASEAN, spoke at a press briefing in Bangkok after completing his two-day working visit.
He met with Myanmar's junta leader Min Aung Hlaing yesterday and spoke, by telephone, today with the prime minister of the shadow National Unity Government (NUG).
Anwar praised the release of 4,800 detainees by Myanmar's military, noting that this represents a significant step by Min Aung Hlaing towards engaging with ASEAN nations.
“Min Aung Hlaing was very candid and he tried to explain their position and their willingness to work with ASEAN, because ASEAN's position is that we should be more involved in the efforts to get them to resolve matters based on the five-point consensus, on which ASEAN has agreed,” Anwar said.
Anwar also mentioned Myanmar's national election, scheduled for December, stating that they are not rushing them, but want to ensure that it is free and fair.
The NUG say they want to ensure effective engagement and a guarantee of fair elections, with the participation of all.
By Franc Han Shih, ThaiPBS World
