The 39th ASEAN summit that met on October 26 had a notable absentee—Gen Min Aung Hlaing, head of Myanmar’s ruling junta. The reaffirmation of ASEAN centrality indicates that India is probably not thinking beyond facilitating the group’s efforts at mediation in Myanmar. However, after ASEAN’s refusal to invite the military junta chief to the summit, the mediatory process could be indefinitely delayed. Such ethnic groups in Northern Shan and Kayah states are regrouping to fight the Tatmadaw. ... We stand for the restoration of democracy in Myanmar.” Words alone are not enough.

Source: Indian Express November 01, 2021 00:41 UTC