ASEAN likely to defer decision on Myanmar’s return to high-level meetings

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 15, 2026

Photo Courtesy: ASEAN

Southeast Asian leaders are expected to postpone a decision on restoring Myanmar’s political representation in key ASEAN meetings, as the regional bloc continues to assess the country’s progress in addressing its ongoing political and humanitarian crisis.

The issue is expected to figure prominently in the 49th ASEAN Summit in Manila, following renewed calls from Thailand and other member states to allow Myanmar’s officials to rejoin high-level regional discussions.

Myanmar’s military-backed leadership has been excluded from ASEAN summits and foreign ministers’ meetings since the 2021 coup, after authorities failed to make significant progress in implementing the bloc’s Five-Point Consensus.

The peace framework calls for an end to violence, dialogue among concerned parties, humanitarian assistance and mediation through an ASEAN special envoy.

Diplomatic sources cited in reports said the continued detention of ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains among the concerns complicating Myanmar’s possible return. ASEAN leaders are reportedly considering a gradual approach to restoring the country’s political participation instead of immediately lifting existing restrictions.

Thailand has been among the countries pushing for greater engagement. Its Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has proposed allowing Myanmar’s foreign minister to attend ASEAN foreign ministers’ meetings.

However, Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro clarified that ASEAN has not agreed to ease its current position.

Lazaro, who also serves as the bloc’s special envoy on Myanmar, said the Five-Point Consensus remains the region’s guiding framework. She added that proposals concerning Myanmar’s participation are still being discussed, with no final decision reached.

Myanmar remains an ASEAN member, but its representation at high-level meetings has been limited to non-political officials.

The issue is expected to be among the major discussions as ASEAN leaders meet in Manila from November 15 to 17, with the bloc seeking a common position on how to address the continuing crisis.