(AseanAll) — On December 19, 2024, Thailand hosted the Six-Country Informal Consultation among the Foreign Ministers and high-level representatives from Myanmar, Lao PDR, Bangladesh, China, and India,according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand.
Photo source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand
The discussion was significant because it was the first gathering between Myanmar and all five of its neighbouring countries.
The participants had a frank and constructive exchange of views on common challenges such as those related to border security and combatting transnational crimes, particularly illicit drugs and online scams. Every country agreed to elevate cooperation on these matters, especially exchanging information and coordination on law enforcement. The issue of water resource management was also discussed.
The overall atmosphere of the discussion was very good. All participating countries appreciated Thailand for taking this initiative and agreed on the importance and necessity of direct and regular consultation between Myanmar and neighbouring countries.
Photo source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand
As these countries are directly impacted, they understand the situation in Myanmar more than others. This consultation will be followed-up and future opportunities to meet will be explored, as appropriate.
Than Swe, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar shared updates on the political roadmap of Myanmar and developments with respect to preparations for upcoming elections next year, including a population census, registration of political parties and the intention to invite election observers from abroad, such as from neighbouring countries.
All neighbouring countries have a shared interest in seeing a peaceful, stable and unified Myanmar through a Myanmar-led and Myanmar-owned process. They urged all parties in Myanmar to stop violence and engage in dialogue in order to find peaceful solutions. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar informed the gathering that the Myanmar Government has opened the door for dialogue to find peaceful solutions through a political process.
The Thai Foreign Minister also had the opportunity to hold bilateral meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar and discussed key issues, such as the case of the four Thai fishermen. He also discussed with both Myanmar and India, the reopening of Asian Highway-1, which is significant for border trade and connectivity between Southeast Asia and South Asia.
All participating countries held numerous bilateral engagements, reflecting the value of the gathering and the appreciation of the constructive role of Thailand as bridge-builder.
