ASEAN leaders kept Myanmar limited to nonpolitical representation at their summits and foreign ministers’ meetings Sunday while outlining a conditional path back, keeping the Five-Point Consensus central to regional engagement.
In its Nov. 15 decision at the Manila summit, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations said it may consider gradually restoring Myanmar’s full political representation if the country makes “sustained and concrete progress” on the plan. The decision calls for engagement to proceed in stages, with its pace shaped by implementation and conditions on the ground. It also encourages member states to contact relevant stakeholders in consultation with the ASEAN chair.
The statement maintains the existing participation limit and gives no timetable or specific benchmarks for lifting it. It also names no date for a further review or says what level of progress would meet the condition.
ASEAN adopted the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) on April 24, 2021. Its provisions address security, diplomacy and relief: parties are called on to end violence and enter dialogue; an envoy of the ASEAN chair is to mediate and meet all sides; and humanitarian assistance is to be delivered through the AHA Centre. According to OHCHR, Myanmar’s military ousted the civilian government on Feb. 1, 2021, and detained political leaders.
ASEAN said the conflict and humanitarian situation remained major concerns. It condemned violence affecting civilians and public facilities and urged restraint, access for aid deliveries and inclusive political talks.
Before the Manila summit, Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro said Thailand’s request for Myanmar’s foreign minister to attend ASEAN ministerial meetings remained under discussion, with leaders to make the decision.