President Rodrigo Duterte has expressed concern over Myanmar’s refusal to send a representative to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, saying this could lead to mistrust among member countries.
“I am concerned that Myanmar’s rejection of our sincere effort of providing assistance might undermine the trust and confidence we have in each other and our other key and external partners, including international organizations,” Duterte said in a statement .
“We urge all parties in Myanmar to engage in constructive dialogue with ASEAN. After all, we are one ASEAN family. If we cannot trust each other, then who can Myanmar trust and work with?” he added.
Duterte’s remarks came amid Myanmar’s refusal to send a representative to the summit since the regional bloc prohibited the presence of Senior General Min Aung Hlaing in the meeting.
ASEAN barred the military general from participating following his involvement in a February 1 coup that ousted and eventually sent civilian leaders, led by Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi, to jail.
Duterte said that democracy in Myanmar and for any other country can only flourish through peaceful dialogue.
“We have shown in the past that the consultative approach in Myanmar made inroads in democratization,” Duterte pointed out.
In addition, Duterte said that humanitarian assistance to Myanmar people should remain unhampered, regardless of gender, age and political color.
“The Philippines will do its part to help people caught in a situation beyond our control. Our doors are open to our Rohingya brothers and sisters and other people of Myanmar who seek refuge,” Duterte said.—LDF, GMA News
Duterte says Myanmar’s rejection of ASEAN aid could erode trust among members
Source: Pinoy Hub News
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