Thailand has signaled strong support for efforts to bring Myanmar back into full engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), marking a notable diplomatic push as the country seeks to rebuild strained regional ties.
Speaking ahead of a scheduled meeting in Bangkok with Myanmar’s new president Min Aung Hlaing, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said Thailand is ready to play a leading role in helping Myanmar normalise relations with the bloc.
Myanmar has remained on the sidelines of ASEAN’s highest-level engagements for the past five years following the 2021 military coup that removed the elected government and triggered widespread unrest and civil conflict. Since then, ASEAN has limited Myanmar’s participation in major summits, allowing only ministerial-level representation.
“We want to support their return to ASEAN. Our policy is to have steps in our interactions to bring them back,” Sihasak said, while also stressing that progress depends on Myanmar addressing ASEAN’s long-standing concerns.
The regional bloc has repeatedly called for an end to violence and meaningful dialogue among all parties under its proposed peace framework. However, implementation has been slow, and divisions within ASEAN have deepened over how to handle the crisis.
Myanmar’s political situation has further complicated the issue. Min Aung Hlaing recently assumed the presidency following a military-backed political process, though many Western countries and critics have dismissed the transition as lacking legitimacy.
Despite this, ASEAN has not formally recognised the new government, maintaining a cautious stance while continuing diplomatic engagement at lower levels.
Thailand’s latest remarks come amid signs of limited humanitarian and political openings. Sihasak welcomed a recent amnesty that included the release of several political prisoners, calling it a potentially positive step if followed by further de-escalation and broader reforms.
“We hope to see more reduction in violence and greater humanitarian access,” he said, adding that ASEAN should also be allowed to support relief efforts inside Myanmar.
In his recent statements, Min Aung Hlaing has expressed willingness to pursue peace talks and improve regional ties, including inviting opposition groups to dialogue. However, key rebel factions have already rejected the offer, underscoring the deep challenges ahead.
As ASEAN prepares for its upcoming summit in the Philippines next month, Myanmar’s future within the bloc remains one of Southeast Asia’s most sensitive and unresolved diplomatic issues.
