Cebu city: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) recently convened an informal meeting focusing on the Myanmar peace plan, affirming a united commitment to resolving the ongoing crisis in the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, who serves as the Philippine ASEAN chair special envoy to Myanmar, spearheaded discussions among key Southeast Asian diplomats. The meeting, held at the Nustar Hotel in Cebu City, centered around the Five-Point Consensus in Myanmar. Lazaro emphasized the collective dedication of the 11 member states in pursuing a Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led peaceful resolution.

In her social media update, Lazaro expressed that engaging dialogues with ASEAN colleagues took place during the Extended Informal Consultation on implementing the Five-Point Consensus. The discussions followed the recently concluded Myanmar elections, which have faced criticism for their legitimacy.

The timing of the meeting is crucial as it precedes the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat scheduled for January 29, which will include participation from top Southeast Asian diplomats and a senior Myanmar official of Permanent Secretary rank.

Foreign Affairs Spokesperson for ASEAN, Dax Imperial, noted that the initiatives by the special envoy to engage with various political and ethnic groups in Myanmar were positively received by the ASEAN foreign ministers. He highlighted that the convening of Myanmar stakeholders in Tagaytay was particularly welcomed.

Imperial further mentioned that ASEAN ministers have not yet reached a decision on recognizing Myanmar's election results. Uncertainty remains regarding future engagement with Myanmar's newly elected leaders, as the situation continues to evolve.

The ASEAN's approach remains cautious, with the Philippines, among other member states, awaiting further developments from the election outcomes to determine subsequent actions.