Indonesia affirms readiness to assist Myanmar peace process via ASEAN

YANGON – Indonesia has reiterated its commitment to assist Myanmar in achieving lasting peace through the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus. Speaking at an informal meeting of ASEAN Foreign Ministers in Bangkok, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi urged for inclusive dialogues and continued regional engagement. She stated that Indonesia stands ready to act as a "bridge" within the framework of the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus. She added that any sustainable solution must be a Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led process, and Indonesia is ready to assist as a "bridge" to facilitate that. She further noted that despite the general elections held in Myanmar earlier this year, significant challenges remain in implementing the Five-Point Consensus. She emphasized that an inclusive dialogue involving all stakeholders is still crucial for lasting peace and national reconciliation. "An inclusive national dialogue involving all stakeholders is the key to lasting peace and national reconciliation," she said. She stated that the Five-Point Consensus should continue to be the main framework for ASEAN to stop violence, facilitate inclusive dialogues, and provide safe and impartial humanitarian assistance. She called for an objective assessment of the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus and supported the extension of the term of the ASEAN Special Envoy to Myanmar to maintain diplomatic engagement. Indonesia has consistently supported a Myanmar-led peace process while continuing to engage with stakeholders across Myanmar. Source: Antara News