Myanmar’s military rulers and opposition seem ready to extend their ceasefire, with talks focusing on humanitarian efforts following the deadly earthquake that flattened buildings across the country.
Myanmar’s Military Rulers and Opposition Seem Ready to Extend Ceasefire After Deadly Earthquake
Myanmar’s military rulers and representatives of the country’s opposition seem ready to extend a ceasefire, Malaysia’s prime minister says. The shallow 7.7-magnitude earthquake flattened buildings across Myanmar and killed thousands.
Talks Focus on Humanitarian Efforts
Outreach talks held with Myanmar’s junta chief Min Aung Hlaing and the prime minister of its toppled shadow government proved successful, according to Malaysian premier Anwar Ibrahim. He announced that both sides are prepared to extend their ceasefire, which was declared after a deadly earthquake on March 28.
Priority Given to Humanitarian Efforts
Anwar said the priority is humanitarian efforts, adding that they must have a ceasefire and ensure the safety of all personnel helping with humanitarian arrangements. The Malaysian prime minister also urged an extended peace, saying it’s essential to cease fire and allow for humanitarian efforts to cover all of Myanmar.
Humanitarian efforts involve providing assistance to individuals affected by crises, such as natural disasters, conflicts, or poverty.
These efforts include food, shelter, medical care, and emotional support.
According to the United Nations, over 244 million people required humanitarian aid in 2020.
Humanitarian organizations like the Red Cross and UNHCR work tirelessly to deliver aid to those affected, often in challenging environments.
Meeting with Junta Leader in Bangkok
The meeting with Min Aung Hlaing focused on Myanmar’s humanitarian needs following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake. Anwar said he had urged an extended peace, stating that it’s important to cease fire regardless of where they are or what political position they take. The junta leader provided assurance on this matter.
UN Human Rights Office Raises Concerns
Despite the truce, the UN Human Rights Office says Myanmar’s military has continued with some airstrikes. A day earlier, a junta statement mentioned that talks had focused on quake relief and repair. However, Anwar’s appeals for peace were not mentioned in the statement.
Junta Leader Seeks Audience After Isolation
The junta leader finds an audience after being isolated for years. This comes as the junta has announced an amnesty for nearly 4,900 prisoners marking the Buddhist new year.
Myanmar's military has a long history of isolating itself from the international community.
In 1962, the country's ruling military junta, led by General Ne Win, implemented a policy of isolationism known as the 'Burmese Way to Socialism.' This policy aimed to create a self-sufficient economy and reduce foreign influence.
Myanmar's military has continued this policy, with some interruptions, since then.
The current situation is characterized by restrictions on international aid, limited access for journalists and diplomats, and severe penalties for criticizing the military.
Facilitating Humanitarian Aid Distribution
During talks with the NUG, which includes remnants of the ousted administration, Anwar made clear that ASEAN would keep engaging both the NUG and the junta — while humanitarian aid efforts would carry on. It is the first time since April 2021 that the leader of the country that chairs ASEAN has met Min Aung Hlaing.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a regional economic organization comprising ten member states.
ASEAN engagement has led to increased trade, investment, and economic growth in the region.
In '2015' , ASEAN launched the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), aiming to create a single market and production base.
The AEC has facilitated the free flow of goods, services, and investments among member states.
According to the 'World Bank' , ASEAN's GDP grew from $1.3 trillion in 2000 to over $2.5 trillion in 2019.
Myanmar’s February 2021 military coup, which came after a temporary experiment with democracy, has left the country mired in deep political chaos, exacerbating internal armed conflicts that have dragged on for decades.
