Myanmar’s impending release of four Thai fishermen, captured in disputed waters off Ranong province last month, demonstrates its commitment to fostering regional peace. This assurance emerged during an informal consultation in Bangkok, where Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa engaged representatives from six regional countries to tackle transnational crime and related issues.
The meeting saw participation from key regional figures, including Chinese Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Sun Weidong, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Bangladesh Adviser for Foreign Affairs Touhid Hossain, Myanmar Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister for Foreign Affairs Than Swe, and Lao Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane.
It marked a significant milestone as the first such gathering of Myanmar with all five of its neighbouring countries, highlighting their collective resolve to address shared challenges. Maris revealed that during discussions with Myanmar, he received confirmation of the imminent release of the fishermen.
“I have received official confirmation from Than Swe that the Myanmar government will release these four fishermen soon.”
He stressed that both nations are committed to preventing similar incidents in the future through collaborative efforts.
Thai fishermen
Meanwhile, a court in Myanmar’s Kawthaung Township has sentenced the fishing boat owner to six years of imprisonment and fined him 200,000 kyat (approximately 3,240 baht) (US$95) while the other three crew members face four-year sentences and a 20,000 kyat (US$9.5) fine each. Earlier, Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai had assured the media that the fishermen would be released by January 4.
The multilateral meeting in Bangkok also facilitated candid and constructive dialogue among the participating countries. Maris emphasised the importance of engaging Myanmar and its neighbours in direct conversations to address the country’s ongoing crisis.
The discussions enabled neighbouring countries to gain a deeper understanding of Myanmar’s sensitivities.
Than Swe updated the attendees on Myanmar’s political developments, including preparations for a national election. Myanmar has completed a population census, and 53 political parties are registered, as reported by Maris, quoting Than Swe.
“Myanmar intends to invite election observers from neighbouring countries,” Maris added, reflecting an openness to international scrutiny.
Maris reiterated the collective hope for a peaceful, stable, and unified Myanmar, urging all conflicting parties to abandon violence in favour of dialogue. Than Swe assured the group that Myanmar is open to discussions aimed at peaceful resolutions through political processes, reported Bangkok Post.
Additionally, the meeting addressed critical issues such as border security, transboundary crime, drug and human trafficking, and online scams, said Maris.
“All six countries want to elevate close collaboration to tackle these problems. This collaboration would involve enhanced information sharing and legal enforcement cooperation.”
Maris also engaged in discussions with Indian representatives regarding the reopening of Asian Highway 1, which has been impacted by the Myanmar crisis.
“This highway is important to people from these three countries as it connects South and Southeast Asia through Thailand, Myanmar, and India.”
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