Summary of Rohingya crisis sparks heated debate among ASEAN leaders
Summary of the Rohingya crisis Discussion
The video discusses the ongoing Rohingya crisis in Myanmar and the divisions among ASEAN leaders during their virtual meetings. The key points include:
- Division Among ASEAN Leaders: ASEAN lawmakers were unable to reach a consensus on including the Rohingya crisis in a resolution, with Indonesia advocating for its inclusion and Myanmar opposing it. Myanmar's representative argued that the issue is an internal affair and any mention would be seen as foreign intervention.
- Proposed Resolution: The draft resolution included provisions for ASEAN to enhance its role in supporting Myanmar, specifically in facilitating the repatriation of Rohingya refugees. However, Myanmar objected to these provisions, leading to a suggestion for a recess to seek a unified stance.
- Lack of Consensus: The discussions revealed a stark divide between Indonesia and Myanmar, with Indonesia insisting on maintaining certain paragraphs in the resolution. The session ended without an agreement, highlighting the challenges of ASEAN diplomacy regarding sensitive issues.
- Broader ASEAN Discussions: In addition to the Rohingya crisis, ASEAN ministers discussed other pressing topics, including maritime disputes in the South China Sea and the impact of COVID-19 on regional economies. They reaffirmed their commitment to unity and economic recovery, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open markets and addressing trade barriers.
- Tensions in the South China Sea: The South China Sea remains a contentious issue, with concerns over militarization and recent incidents at sea. ASEAN ministers called for restraint and the resumption of talks regarding a code of conduct with China, which have been delayed due to the pandemic.
Overall, the video highlights the complexities and challenges faced by ASEAN in addressing regional crises, particularly the Rohingya issue and maritime disputes, amidst a backdrop of geopolitical tensions.
Presenters/Contributors
- ASEAN Leaders
- Representatives from Indonesia and Myanmar
- Vietnamese Chair
- ASEAN Ministers
- Tom (reporter)
Notable Quotes
— 05:55 — « The south china sea issue has been one of the funniest issues in asean in the past in the asean history. »
— 06:30 — « The minister called on all parties to exercise restraint and non-militarization policies to create a conducive environment for the talks on the code of conduct. »
Category
News and Commentary