Thailand pushing for talks to repair key Myanmar highway

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Myanmar issues may remain addressed through creative speech, says secretary

PUBLISHED: 19 Sep 2024 at 11: 44

Military personnel stand guard as hundreds of refugees crossed over the river frontier between Myanmar and Thailand on April 13, 2024. (Photo: Reuters)
On April 13, 2024, thousands of migrants crossed the border between Myanmar and Thailand, surrounded by defense personnel. ( Photo: Reuters )

As part of its efforts to stabilize its borders and ensure trade routes are available, Myanmar’s government wants to work with its conflict-stricken neighbors to fix a crucial highway that cuts through the country, according to foreign affairs minister Maris Sangiampongsa on Thursday.

In the effort to rebuild portions of the Asian Highway 1 ( AH-1 ) that have been damaged by recent fighting, Thailand has the support of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations ( Asean ) regional bloc and India, Mr. Maris told reporters.

” I do n’t think Myanmar problems can be addressed militarily, but through constructive dialogue”, he said.

Myanmar has experienced a tumult since February 2021 when the country’s strong commanders ousted an elected civilian state, which sparked an armed uprising against the ruling junta.

Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa. ( Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs )

Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa. ( Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs )