As pro-democracy protests continue in Myanmar, Thailand on Thursday reiterated the call for all sides in the strife-torn country to exercise “utmost restraint” and for people detained by the military after the coup last month to be released.
In a statement issued today, the Thai Foreign Ministry also urged all parties concerned to seek a peaceful solution for Myanmar.
It said Thailand as a next-door neighbour is following developments in Myanmar with much concern.
“As with other countries, we are saddened by the loss of lives and sufferings of the people of Myanmar due to escalating violence in the country,” it said.
Reiterating the statements by Brunei Darussalam as chairman of ASEAN, the Foreign Ministry called on all sides in Myanmar to exercise utmost restraint as well as flexibility.
“We call for de-escalation of the situation and release of detainees. We also urge all parties concerned to seek a peaceful solution for Myanmar and its people through dialogue via any constructive channels,” it said.
State counsellor and leader of the National League for Democracy Aung San Suu Kyi and President Win Myint are among political leaders being detained by the military which seized power on February 1.
The statement also said Thailand supports ASEAN’s readiness to assist Myanmar, an ASEAN family member, “in a positive, peaceful and constructive manner.”
Last month, the foreign affairs ministers of Thailand, Myanmar and Indonesia held a trilateral discussion, which was the first face-to-face meeting between a senior junta-appointed Myanmar official and the foreign ministers of other ASEAN countries.
In related news, Thailand has prepared facilities in provinces bordering Myanmar, to help people expected to flee crackdowns in Myanmar.
Protesters hold homemade shields during a demonstration against the military coup in Yangon on March 8, 2021 / AFP
