On August 16, in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized that interference in Myanmar's internal affairs by any external party is unacceptable. This statement was made during an informal discussion involving the Foreign Ministers of China, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand.
The ministers from these four neighboring countries, which share long borders and deep historical ties, convened to address the situation in Myanmar. Wang Yi noted that these countries, given their close proximity and understanding of Myanmar's unique national circumstances, are better positioned to provide support. He added that no country desires stability and development in Myanmar more than its neighbors.
Wang Yi expressed concern over the current situation in Myanmar, outlining three key principles: preventing civil strife, ensuring Myanmar remains integrated within the ASEAN community, and resisting external interference. He reiterated China’s longstanding policy of non-interference in Myanmar's internal matters, supporting its sovereignty, national unity, and efforts towards reconciliation and development through dialogue.
During the meeting, Wang Yi proposed three main actions: supporting Myanmar’s peace and reconciliation process in line with legal frameworks, assisting the Myanmar people in overcoming current challenges, and backing ASEAN's approach to addressing the Myanmar issue while guarding against external forces that may incite conflict.
Myanmar’s representatives provided an update on the domestic situation and the government’s efforts to maintain stability. They expressed gratitude to the neighboring countries for their support and willingness to use this informal platform to enhance cooperation, with the aim of restoring stability and achieving political reconciliation.
Thailand emphasized its desire for peace, unity, and stability in Myanmar, supporting Myanmar's right to handle its internal issues independently, while offering continued communication and assistance. Laos echoed these sentiments, highlighting the shared borders and mutual challenges of the four nations. The Lao representatives fully agreed with China’s non-interference stance, stressing that Myanmar's problems should be resolved internally, free from external intervention.
Attending the meeting were high-level officials, including Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, Myanmar's Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Than Swe, and Thai Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs Eksiri Pintaruchi.
