Sihasak hosts Myanmar FM for retreat on peace and bilateral ties

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow will meet his Myanmar counterpart today at an informal ministers’ retreat in Phuket to discuss the future direction of bilateral relations and prospects for peace following Myanmar’s recent general election.

Sihasak said upon arriving in Phuket yesterday that the talks would provide an opportunity for an informal exchange on the evolving political landscape in Myanmar and its implications for Thailand–Myanmar ties.

He emphasised that Thailand, as a frontline state sharing a long and porous border with Myanmar, has been directly affected by developments in its neighbor, particularly in economic and security matters.

Thailand also faces transnational challenges linked to Myanmar, including online scam operations, narcotics trafficking, and environmental pollution stemming from mining activities.

Sihasak said supporting Myanmar’s return to sustainable peace aligns with Thailand’s national interests, alongside advancing the implementation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ Five-Point Consensus.

However, Sihasak stressed that the meeting does not signal Thailand’s recognition of Myanmar’s election results, endorsement of its military government, or normalization of relations.

Instead, he said Thailand aims to use its position to encourage dialogue and reconciliation, particularly among ethnic groups opposed to the government along the Thai–Myanmar border, including Karen, Kayah, and Shan communities.

The Phuket meeting will mark the first discussion focused specifically on Myanmar’s post-election trajectory.