Thailand seeks leading role in restoring Myanmar to Asean fold

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by ReutersFebruary 18, 2026 at 03:15 PM

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Thailand is seeking to take a leading role in restoring Myanmar to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) nearly five years after a military coup. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow announced this initiative after meeting with his Myanmar counterpart, Than Shwe, in southern Thailand on Wednesday. Sihasak stated Thailand aims to be a "bridge" for Myanmar's return, urging Myanmar to address ASEAN's concerns, including initiating dialogue and reducing violence. ASEAN has excluded Myanmar's junta leaders from summits since the 2021 coup, which ousted the democratic government and led to widespread conflict. Thailand hopes to facilitate Myanmar's re-engagement with the regional bloc.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

2021 Myanmar coup d'état 60% Myanmar Military Junta 60% Than Shwe ×370% Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) ×480% Sihasak Phuangketkeow ×490% Myanmar ×690% Thailand ×590%

Keywords

myanmar 100% asean 90% thailand 80% military coup 70% dialogue process 60% sihasak phuangketkeow 50% violence 50% than shwe 40% restoring myanmar 40%

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Positive

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South China Morning Post

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myanmar asean thailand military coup dialogue process sihasak phuangketkeow violence than shwe restoring myanmar

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