Jokowi on Myanmar Crisis: Violence Must Be Stopped, Peace Must Be Returned

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President of Indonesia Joko Widodo (Jokowi) claimed that the ASEAN leaders meating today has reached a concensus on the crisis in Myanmar. He, therefore, said that the efforts to end the crisis in Myanmar can soon be started.

"We're thankful that we share the same commitment with all the ASEAN country leaders. The ASEAN leaders have reached the consensus," said Jokowi in a press conference after the summit on Saturday, April 24.

He mentioned that the leaders of the Southeast Asian countries have all agreed to prioritize the interest and safety of the people of Myanmar. There are several points in the agreement.

The first, all parties involved in Myanmar crisis must stop the use of violence, so that tensions can be difused. As previously reported, armed ethnic groups in Myanmar have taken to the streets in response to the military junta's violence. Some fear that it will lead to civil war.

Next, Jokowi said inclusive dialogues must immediately be held, followed by the release of the thousands of the political prisoners. Then, ASEAN appointed special envoys to communicate with all the parties involved in the crises in Myanmar.

Finally, President Jokowi stated that Myanmar must open the access for the distribution of humanitarian assistance for those affected.

"Violence must be stopped and peace must be returned immediately," said the Indonesian President.

As per today's press time, the situation in Myanmar has yet to improve. The number of casualties and victims of political prisoners keep increasing. 700 people had been killed and the number will increase if the crises in Myanmar is not ended soon.

The crisis was triggered by the illegal coup done by the Junta Military on February 1st. Myanmar Military Chief Min Aung Hlain odered to arrest state officials, starting from President Win Myint, until state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi.

Min Aung Hlaing attended the ASEAN Leaders Meeting today, April 24, in Jakarta. Several parties viewed that it could be the momentum of the Southeast Asian countries to find a solution to the crisis in Myanmar. Some also criticized his presence in the summit, saying that it means the ASEAN legitimates the leadership of the junta military.

Read: President Jokowi Arrives at ASEAN Leaders Meeting Arena

ISTMAN MP