Myanmar Foreign Minister Briefs Neighbors on Elections

In a significant regional meeting held in Bangkok, Myanmar's junta-appointed Foreign Minister U Than Swe briefed officials from neighboring countries, including Thailand, China, India, Laos, and Bangladesh, on the military's plans for upcoming elections amidst ongoing civil unrest. The meeting, attended by foreign ministers and senior officials, addressed the preparations for a national census and the registration of 53 political parties ahead of elections expected in November 2025. While Myanmar has expressed a willingness to invite foreign election observers, critics view the elections as unlikely to be free or fair, given the current military control. The discussions also touched on transnational issues like drug trafficking and human trafficking, as regional officials emphasized the need for ongoing cooperation to maintain peace and security along borders. Despite the junta's updates, the situation in Myanmar remains precarious, with persistent fighting between military forces and pro-democracy groups since the 2021 coup. The meeting reflects a cautious engagement by neighboring countries as they navigate the complexities of Myanmar's political crisis.