the attendance of Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the leader of Myanmar's military regime, at a Bay of Bengal regional summit. This marked his first appearance at a meeting in a Southeast Asian capital since the military seized power from the democratically elected government in February 2021.
However, the positive diplomatic image is being challenged by reports that Min Aung Hlaing has not upheld his promise to cease offensive military operations. This promise was made to allow humanitarian aid to reach areas affected by the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck at the end of March, resulting in at least 3,500 fatalities.
Reports from human rights campaigners indicate that aerial attacks on villages within the earthquake-affected regions have resulted in numerous casualties. These actions are casting a shadow over the recent diplomatic gains.
6 Comments
KittyKat
The summit has become a platform for the oppressor. The voice of the people has been silenced.
Noir Black
Instead of condemning, they're validating. This is a grave disservice to the Burmese people.
KittyKat
He promised to cease offensive operations? And we trusted this promise? He's a liar
BuggaBoom
This summit is enabling the regime. They’re treating him like a head of state while he's a tyrant.
Leonardo
How can they claim to support humanitarian aid when they are hosting him?
Donatello
Diplomacy is necessary for regional stability. This is a step towards reconciliation.