Sihasak to visit Myanmar next week

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow is scheduled to visit Naypyidaw next week to strengthen bilateral ties, as Thailand and Myanmar have just formed new cabinets, according to an informed source.

His visit comes amid reports today of reduced sentences for former leader Aung San Suu Kyi as part of an amnesty granted by President Min Aung Hlaing during Thingyan (New Year).

He also granted amnesty to 4,335 prisoners, including Win Myint, a former president under the leadership of the National League for Democracy, according to state broadcaster MRTV.

The source said Sihasak is scheduled to hold talks with leaders of the new government in Naypyidaw on April 22 on issues related to bilateral relations, as well as the situation in post-election Myanmar.

Sihasak will be the first ASEAN leader to visit Myanmar after its transition from a military regime to a military-backed government following the recent elections. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing has assumed the presidency.

After the 2021 coup, ASEAN barred Myanmar’s leaders from attending ASEAN-related summits.

The bloc has consistently urged the Naypyidaw regime to implement the five-point consensus, which includes a ceasefire, political dialogue and humanitarian assistance, among others.

ASEAN has not recognised the outcome of the election. Sihasak’s visit could be seen as tantamount to official recognition of the new government by Thailand.