CNI News
April 23, 2026
Political analysts suggest that although a transitional government has emerged in Myanmar, ASEAN is likely to fully reintegrate the country only if President U Min Aung Hlaing demonstrates genuine reforms.
ASEAN has consistently called for the implementation of its Five-Point Consensus, which includes: The immediate cessation of violence. Constructive dialogue among all parties concerned. The appointment of a special envoy to facilitate mediation.
Provision of humanitarian assistance through ASEAN. The special envoy’s visit to Myanmar to meet all parties.
Political analyst Dr. Aung Myo told CNI News that if the new government successfully achieves national reconciliation, Myanmar could reintegrate into the ASEAN community even without strictly following every point of the consensus.
A meeting of the National Defense and Security Council (NDSC) in progress.
"Essentially, massive reform is needed. The reforms during U Thein Sein’s era were often superficial and lacked substance in certain areas. This time, there must be meaningful, substantive reform. On the other hand, the NLD failed to implement reforms and misled the public with inconsistent rhetoric. If we avoid those two paths, keep our promises to the people, and implement reforms more substantive than those of the U Thein Sein era, ASEAN will naturally welcome us back and invite us to participate." — Dr. Aung Myo
Analysts noted that the previous State Administration Council (SAC) showed weak implementation of the Five-Point Consensus, possibly because the military felt such steps were unnecessary. However, with a general election concluded and a formal government established—coupled with backing from major powers like China and Russia at the UN—some experts believe ASEAN will eventually have to invite the President to meetings.
The process of reintegration may, however, expose divisions within the regional bloc. Political analyst U Gyi Myint pointed out the differing stances among member states to CNI News.
President U Min Aung Hlaing meeting with Thai Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Mr. Sihasak.
"The government will do its job and try its best to regain full ASEAN membership. There is a split between the mainland and maritime states. Mainland countries like Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos are likely to support Myanmar. However, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines may not agree yet. We have to see how the new Foreign Minister handles this and how much support China provides. ASEAN operates on a consensus basis; if one country objects, a decision cannot be made." — U Gyi Myint
Following the 2025 general election, the transitional government led by U Min Aung Hlaing was formed on April 10, 2026.
Diplomatic activity has already increased. On April 22, 2026, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sihasak, visited Myanmar to meet with President U Min Aung Hlaing to discuss improving relations with ASEAN. Additionally, Chinese Foreign Minister Mr. Wang Yi is expected to visit Myanmar this month for talks with the President.
