Former Thai foreign minister urges inclusive dialogue to address Myanmar crisis, border problems at Chiang Mai conference

Mizzima

Myanmar’s economic and social crises and problems along the Thai-Myanmar border cannot be resolved without inclusive dialogue and sustainable peace, former Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Surakiart Sathirathai said in Chiang Mai, Thailand on 14 August.

Speaking at the opening of the 5th International Conference on Burma/Myanmar Studies (ICBMS5), Surakiart said Myanmar continues to face conflict, geopolitical competition, environmental degradation, migration and displacement, public health concerns, disruption to education, and questions over governance, democracy and human rights.

“The economic and social problems in Myanmar, the border problems with Thailand, and the impact on the region cannot be solved without inclusive dialogue and sustainable peace in Myanmar,” he said.

Surakiart urged all sides to consider how an inclusive political dialogue could take place, saying such a process should not involve only the Myanmar military.

“All parties to the conflict should be invited to present their positions,” he said.

Surakiart, who is also chairman of the Asian Peace and Reconciliation Council (APRC) and Chairman of the Chiang Mai University Council, said his work through what he described as “quiet diplomacy” had sought to promote inclusive peace dialogue involving Myanmar authorities and more than 40 opposition groups.