The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) chaired by the Philippines, has called for further prisoner releases in Myanmar, including detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi, saying a recent amnesty is a positive step towards inclusive national dialogue.

In a statement issued on Friday, ASEAN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Myanmar in achieving a “peaceful and durable solution” to its ongoing political crisis.

Suu Kyi’s Detention Remains Central Issue

Aung San Suu Kyi has been in detention since the Myanmar coup, which ousted her elected government and ended a decade of tentative democratic progress. She is currently serving a 27-year sentence after being convicted on multiple charges, which her allies say are politically motivated and aimed at keeping her out of public life.

Her situation was discussed this week during a meeting between Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Myanmar’s president Min Aung Hlaing, who led the coup. According to Sihasak, Min Aung Hlaing said Suu Kyi was being “well looked after” and that “good things” were being considered for her, without providing further details.

Amnesty Offers Limited Relief

Last week, Myanmar announced an amnesty for thousands of prisoners, which included the release of former president Win Myint, a close ally of Suu Kyi. Her own sentence was also reduced by one-sixth as part of the measure.

However, ASEAN signalled that broader steps are needed to build trust and advance reconciliation in the country. The bloc has consistently pushed for inclusive dialogue involving all parties to resolve the crisis.

Coup Fallout and Regional Pressure

The 2021 coup triggered widespread protests and a prolonged civil conflict, prompting ASEAN to intervene diplomatically and exclude Myanmar’s military leadership from its high-level summits.

In recent remarks, Min Aung Hlaing said his priority is peace and reconciliation and that Myanmar seeks to normalise ties with ASEAN, with regional partners continuing to encourage progress towards a political settlement.

(with inputs from Reuters)