ASEAN Expresses Concern over Escalating Violence in Myanmar's Key Trading Hub, Myawaddy
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) expressed concern over the escalating violence in Myanmar, specifically in the area of Myawaddy near the Thai border.
The foreign ministers of ASEAN urged all parties to immediately stop the fighting, which has been ongoing since the military seized power in a February 2021 coup.
The military was recently forced to withdraw from a key trading post after clashes with the Karen National Union (KNU) and other anti-junta fighters.
Myanmar's military government, or junta, experienced a significant setback with clashes at the Myawaddy border crossing with Thailand.
This area is a major trade link between the two countries, with over a billion dollars worth of trade annually.
The fighting caused people to flee into Thailand, and gunfire and artillery barrages were heard from the Thai side.
Thailand has expressed readiness to accept refugees but warned against sovereignty violations.
The clashes represent a significant threat to the junta, as they come after a series of battlefield losses in recent months.