ASEAN Urges Myanmar Junta to Halt Violence Before Elections

Southeast Asian foreign ministers stress peace and inclusivity as priorities during Malaysia-chaired meeting.

ASEAN foreign ministers have called on Myanmar's military government to prioritize a ceasefire and dialogue over its proposed elections, citing the ongoing civil war and humanitarian crisis.
The bloc emphasized that any elections in Myanmar must be inclusive and involve all stakeholders, warning against holding polls under current conditions.
ASEAN's five-point peace plan for Myanmar has seen little progress since its introduction in 2021, with Malaysia appointing a special envoy to push for its implementation.
The Myanmar conflict has displaced over 3.3 million people, with critics labeling the junta's proposed elections a sham aimed at consolidating military power.
Discussions at the ASEAN retreat also addressed regional tensions in the China Sea, with calls for accelerated negotiations on a code of conduct with China to ensure stability in the vital waterway.