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Press Statement by the Chair of the 32nd ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC) Meeting and ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat

February 4th, 2023  •  Author:   Association of Southeast Asian Nations  •  2 minute read
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1. The ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat was convened on 4 February 2023 in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Retreat was the first major meeting under Indonesia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2023 with the theme “ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth. The meeting was preceded by the 32nd ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC) Meeting under Indonesia’s Chairmanship on 3 February 2023.

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50. We noted that two years have passed since the military takeover of power in Myanmar and, in that regard, urged for significant progress in the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus to pave the way for an inclusive national dialogue in Myanmar. We stressed that inclusive national dialogue is key to finding a peaceful resolution to the situation in Myanmar. We also stressed that all stakeholders must create a conducive environment for an inclusive national dialogue by ceasing violence and ensuring the timely and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance.

51. We reaffirmed ASEAN’s continued support for Myanmar’s efforts to bring peace, stability, and the rule of law, promote harmony and reconciliation among the various communities, and promote sustainable and equitable development in Rakhine State. We emphasized the need to facilitate the voluntary return of displaced persons in a safe, secure, and dignified manner. We appreciated the contribution from the ASEAN Member States and external partners in supporting the prioritized projects to facilitate the repatriation process and to promote inclusive and sustainable development in Rakhine State. We looked forward to the conduct of the Comprehensive Needs Assessment (CNA) when conditions allow and encouraged the Secretary-General of ASEAN to continue identifying possible areas for ASEAN to facilitate the repatriation process effectively.


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