Leaders of ASEAN are set to meet in Vientiane to address the civil conflict in Myanmar and disputes in the South China Sea. This summit marks Myanmar’s first participation since the military coup in 2021, with discussions anticipated on a peace plan and security cooperation among member states. The escalating tensions in the South China Sea, notably China’s aggression toward ASEAN nations, are also expected to feature prominently on the agenda.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is poised to convene in Vientiane on Wednesday for a key summit focusing on two critical issues: the ongoing civil strife in Myanmar and the escalating territorial disputes in the South China Sea. This summit marks the first time since the 2021 military coup that Myanmar, represented by Aung Kyaw Moe, the permanent secretary of its Foreign Ministry, will participate in discussions with ASEAN leaders. The coup, which resulted in the ousting of the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, led the military junta to boycott previous ASEAN summits following a decision made by member states in October 2021 to exclude high-ranking military representatives from attending. Amidst a resolute campaign by three ethnic minority rebel groups, the junta has faced significant setbacks, prompting the decision to send a diplomatic representative to this gathering. The discussions will likely cover the implementation of the five-point consensus peace plan agreed upon in April 2021, which emphasizes an urgent end to violence and the engagement of an ASEAN special envoy with all relevant parties. Progress on this plan, however, has been minimal, with the conflict resulting in widespread devastation and loss of life since the coup. In addition to Myanmar, tensions stemming from China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea are expected to be a focal point of discussion. Recent incidents include aggressive encounters between Chinese vessels and those of the Philippines, alongside reported assaults by Chinese law enforcement on Vietnamese fishing boats in disputed waters. Other ASEAN nations such as Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan also maintain territorial claims in the region, highlighting the complexity and volatility of the maritime disputes. Moreover, the participants of the summit are anticipated to address collective measures to combat transnational crime and enhance food security. Topics external to the region, including tensions on the Korean Peninsula and conflicts in the Middle East, will also be on the agenda. The ASEAN bloc comprises ten member states: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
The ASEAN summit serves as a crucial platform for addressing regional challenges, particularly with Myanmar currently facing an intense civil war following a military coup in 2021. The political instability in Myanmar, along with territorial disputes in the South China Sea, poses serious implications for regional security and diplomacy. This summit will explore the effectiveness of the five-point consensus aimed at restoring peace in Myanmar while simultaneously tackling heightened tensions among member states regarding China’s activities in contested waters.
In summary, the upcoming ASEAN summit in Vientiane stands as a pivotal event for addressing pressing issues faced by member states, particularly the civil unrest in Myanmar and territorial disputes in the South China Sea provoked by Chinese assertiveness. As the meeting unfolds, it is expected that leaders will discuss the urgent need for a peaceful resolution in Myanmar and strategies to enhance regional stability amidst ongoing threats both within and beyond the ASEAN framework.
Original Source: english.kyodonews.net
