Malaysia’s foreign minister visited Myanmar on Tuesday and met with his counterpart appointed by the country’s military-backed government. The top Malaysian diplomat said Myanmar showed positive signs toward talks with the country’s opposition.
Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan met Tin Maung Swe, the foreign minister in the government launched after a recent military-led election. Fighting continues between the military and pro-democracy and ethnic minority forces. Mohamad said he told the Myanmar side to stop the violence and atrocities against its people. He noted that the country appears to be more open to talks with the opposition.
The visit came after ASEAN leaders met in the Philippines earlier this month and discussed Myanmar. They took a cautious stance toward its new government, as its members hold varying positions on key issues. Mohamad said he will prepare a report on his visit to help ASEAN formulate its approach toward Myanmar.