Myanmar should not use ASEAN for retaliatory politics, Singapore-based Asia One reported today, following remarks made at the 18th ASEAN Defence Ministersโ Meeting held in Vientiane, Laos, on November 20.
ASEAN is currently considering the inclusion of new partners for defence cooperation, a decision set to be discussed and approved by member states during the meeting. Myanmar has opposed the proposal, suggesting that the matter should be deferred to Malaysia, which will chair ASEAN in 2025.
Singapore Defence Minister Dr. Ng Eng Hen expressed concern that Myanmarโs objections could undermine ASEANโs centrality, which has been cultivated over more than two decades.
โSome Western countries have expressed interest in joining this cooperation. Myanmar should not use the 10-nation group for its own purposes. Everyone knows Myanmar is creating difficulties for ASEAN,โ Dr. Ng stated. He added, โMyanmar should not disobey the decisions of ASEAN leaders or hinder ASEANโs progress and aspirations to move forward.โ
The meeting was attended by a director from the International Relations Department of the Ministry of Defense, representing the Military Council, according to international news reports.
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