(Borneo Bulletin/Asia News Network): Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah on Friday (Nov 26) called for Myanmar to be given space to return to normalcy, in accordance with the will of its people.

The monarch said this during the Retreat Session of the 13th Asia-Europe Meeting (Asem) Summit, held virtually from Baitul Mesyuarah, Istana Nurul Iman, during which he said the situation in the South-East Asian country is a challenging matter, given its long and complex history since gaining independence over 70 years ago.

The sultan also expressed hope that Myanmar will implement the Asean Five-Point Consensus in a timely manner, to build confidence with regional and international partners, while extending appreciation for the continued support of the international community for Asean’s efforts on the matter.

On the summit’s theme, ‘Strengthening Multilaterism for Shared Growth’, he said it reflects the needs for the global community to address the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, geo-political and economic competition, and climate change.

Thus, the monarch added, it is vital to continue to uphold and promote multilateral cooperation based on international law, mutual respect and peaceful resolution of disputes.

The Retreat Session also saw Asian and European leaders exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, in his closing remarks, appreciated the open and constructive discussions between Asem leaders towards collectively addressing issues of global importance.

He added that Asem’s core principles of informality and mutual respect have enabled its members to overcome numerous sensitive issues through active and close collaboration, towards building more peaceful, safe and prosperous regions.

The summit ended with the adoption of the 13th Asem Summit ‘Strengthening Multilaterism for Shared Growth’ Chair’s Statement, Phnom Penh Statement on the Post-Covid-19 Socio-Economic Recovery, and The Way Forward on Asem Connectivity report.