BANGKOK, May 15 (NNN-Bernama) — ASEAN and the United States (US) will redouble their collective efforts towards a peaceful solution in Myanmar.
In a joint vision statement after the ASEAN-US Special Summit – the first-ever to be held in Washington, D.C. – it said ASEAN member states and the US remain deeply concerned over the crisis in Myanmar.
It said the leaders reiterated their commitment to peace and stability in the region and continue to call for the immediate cessation of violence in Myanmar and for the release of all political detainees, including foreigners.
“We will redouble our collective efforts towards a peaceful solution in Myanmar that also reflects a continued commitment to human rights and fundamental freedoms, as outlined in the ASEAN Charter.
“We welcome close coordination between the Special Envoy of the ASEAN Chair on Myanmar and the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General on Myanmar to ensure synergy in this important endeavour,” it said.
The joint vision statement stated ASEAN and the US would continue to support ASEAN’s efforts to facilitate a peaceful solution in the interest of the people of Myanmar, including through the work of the Special Envoy of the ASEAN Chair on Myanmar, in building confidence and trust with full access to all parties concerned, and effective delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Myanmar, including those who are the most in need, without discrimination.
The statement said ASEAN and the US urged the timely and complete implementation of the 5PCs.
The 5PCs on Myanmar adopted by ASEAN leaders at the ASEAN Leaders’ Meeting in Jakarta on April 24 last year are: end violence; hold constructive discussions with stakeholders; ASEAN provides humanitarian aid to Myanmar; the appointment of a special ASEAN ambassador to carry out negotiations; and for the special envoy to be allowed to visit the country.
On Russia-Ukraine crisis, the joint vision statement said ASEAN and the US continue to reaffirm its respect for sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity.
It said the leaders reiterated their call for compliance with the United Nations Charter and international law.
“We underline the importance of an immediate cessation of hostilities and creating an enabling environment for peaceful resolution. We support the efforts of the UN Secretary-General (Antonio Guterres) in the search for a peaceful solution.
“We also call for the facilitation of rapid, safe and unhindered access to humanitarian assistance for those in need in Ukraine, and for the protection of civilians, humanitarian personnel, and persons in vulnerable situations,” it said.
— NNN-BERNAMA