JAKARTA: Asean foreign ministers have collectively urged all parties in Myanmar to enable the safe repatriation of citizens from their countries who are caught in the ongoing conflict, particularly in the Northern Shan state.
While acknowledging Myanmar authorities' evacuation efforts, they emphasised the importance of coordinated humanitarian aid and swift evacuations in collaboration with Asean member embassies.
In their statement, the ministers expressed deep concern over the escalating conflicts, calling on all parties to exhibit restraint, cease violence, uphold humanitarian law, and protect civilians.
"We call on Myanmar authorities and relevant parties to provide urgent humanitarian assistance and ensure rapid and safe passage for the evacuation of stranded foreign nationals," they noted.
The ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to the peaceful resolution of the situation in Myanmar through the Five-Point Consensus, emphasising the significance of a unified and peaceful Myanmar in Asean's interest. --BERNAMA