ASEAN to Review Myanmar Restrictions at Manila Summit

ASEAN leaders are scheduled to review Myanmar’s exclusion from the bloc’s high-level meetings at a November 15-17 summit in Manila, as some member states press for greater engagement with the country’s military-backed leadership. No change to the restrictions has been announced, and the decision remains with ASEAN members collectively.

A spokesperson for the Philippines, which chairs ASEAN this year, said leaders would issue a negotiated document reviewing implementation of the bloc’s Five-Point Consensus on Myanmar. The consensus calls for an end to violence, inclusive dialogue, humanitarian assistance and mediation. The planned review will address the implementation of that framework; its outcome has not been determined.

ASEAN has barred Myanmar’s military leaders from attending summits and foreign ministers’ meetings since 2021, citing the failure to implement the consensus. Nonpolitical representatives have been permitted to attend. The restrictions followed the military coup that ousted the elected government and the conflict that followed.

Thailand has called for Myanmar’s foreign minister to take part in ASEAN foreign ministers’ meetings. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak...