Myanmar pledges 2025 election at six-nation consultation

Myanmar’s foreign minister has informed a six-nation informal consultation meeting that the country is preparing for an election next year, according to Thai Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura.

Thailand hosted the six-nation informal consultation on Thursday, with representatives from Myanmar, Thailand, China, India, Bangladesh, and Laos discussing the ongoing crisis in Myanmar.

Nikorndej said that Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, who led the discussions, emphasised the significance of the meeting, marking the first time Myanmar and all five of its neighbouring countries have convened for such a dialogue.

“The foreign minister of Myanmar informed the meeting about the country’s political roadmap and developments regarding preparations for elections next year,” Nikorndej told a press conference today.

The meeting also addressed border issues unique to each of Myanmar’s neighbours, including illicit drugs, smuggling, arms trade, human trafficking, and online scams.

“All neighbouring countries share a common interest in seeing a peaceful, stable, and unified Myanmar. They agreed that all parties within Myanmar must cease the use of violence and turn to dialogue to achieve a peaceful solution,” he said.

In response, Myanmar’s foreign minister said the country is open to political dialogue.

“The meeting lasted about two hours and reflects the sincerity and firm commitment of all participants to increase efforts in addressing shared concerns,” Nikorndej added.

Bangladesh interim government foreign affairs adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Laos Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane, and Myanmar Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister U Than Swe attended the meeting.

- Bernama

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