Cebu: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has opted not to recognize the recently concluded elections in Myanmar, as stated by Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro. This announcement followed the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat held in Cebu, where Lazaro emphasized the need for further discussions and consultations within the bloc regarding the establishment of a new government in Myanmar.

According to Philippines News Agency, during the retreat, Myanmar's representative described the elections as 'very peaceful' with significant voter participation. However, Secretary Lazaro highlighted the bloc's insistence that any elections in Myanmar should be 'free, fair, peaceful, transparent, inclusive, and credible.' When pressed about ASEAN's official stance on the election results, Lazaro clarified that the bloc has not endorsed the three phases of the elections held in Myanmar.

The foreign ministers, alongside Myanmar's representative, collectively reaffirmed the Five-Point Consensus as the primary framework for resolving the ongoing crisis. Lazaro stressed the importance of peace, security, and inclusivity in achieving any substantial political progress, supported by the cessation of violence and inclusive dialogue among all stakeholders.

Furthermore, the ministers reiterated their commitment to facilitating a 'Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led' solution to the conflict, while continuing to regard Myanmar as an integral part of ASEAN. Lazaro expressed a preference for Myanmar's continued membership in ASEAN, contingent upon progress in resolving the current situation.

The ongoing crisis in Myanmar, which began with the military takeover in 2021, remains a critical issue for ASEAN and the region. The Five-Point Consensus, established by ASEAN leaders in the same year, calls for an immediate end to violence and utmost restraint among all parties involved.