Press Release

The Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Wunna Maung Lin participated in the Emergency ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held via videoconference on 15-10-2021. At the meeting, Dato Erywan Pehin Yusof, the Special Envoy of the ASEAN Chair briefed about the coordination processes done with the Government of Myanmar for his visit to Myanmar.

In response to the briefing by the Special Envoy, the Union Minister explained that Myanmar had closely cooperated and coordinated with the Special Envoy to materialize his very first trip to Myanmar. While considering the rule of law and internal stability, Myanmar has also extended its full facilitation for the success of his visit and for productive outcomes. While encouraging the special envoy to build trust and confidence with Myanmar during his first visit, the Union Minister reiterated the continued cooperation with the Special Envoy.

At the meeting, some ASEAN Member States discussed the matter of Myanmar’s representation and the level of representation at the upcoming ASEAN Summit and related Summits.

In response, the Union Minister reminded that such discussions are not necessary as there is no provision in ASEAN Charter and its principles on such matters. The Union Minister stated that the legality and constitutionality of the Government of Myanmar should not be questioned as the Government has been undertaking State responsibilities in accord with the State Constitution. Linking the matter of Myanmar’s representation at the ASEAN Summit with the visit of the Special Envoy would be counterproductive as it is merely putting pressure on Myanmar. The Union Minister also put on the record of the meeting that Myanmar objected to the decision made by the ASEAN without reaching consensus.

Myanmar is extremely disappointed and strongly objected to the outcomes of the Emergency Foreign Ministers’ Meeting as the discussions and decision on Myanmar’s representation issue was done without consensus and was against the objectives of the ASEAN, the ASEAN Charter and its principles.

At the juncture of emerging strategic competition in the region, ignoring the ASEAN’s good traditions of fostering Unity in Diversity and resolving differences through consultations and consensus would greatly affect the unity and centrality of the ASEAN.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Nay Pyi Taw
Dated:16 October 2021