KUALA LUMPUR, June 11 — Despite the long-standing principle of non-interference, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) needs a robust approach to dealing with regional crises.
Citing the ongoing crisis in Myanmar as a current example, Jakarta-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies' Lina Alexandra said: If a member state faces an internal problem that transforms into a regional crisis threatening the stability of other member states, a response is necessary.
“This should not be seen as a violation of the non-interference principle but rather as an act of regional solidarity.
"The crisis in Myanmar is no longer a domestic issue; it is a regional problem. Asean must adopt a more robust approach to address this," she said during the launch of the report "A Partnership for the Future: Asean-Australia Ties After the First 50 Years" today.
Also present was Australia’s High Commissioner to Malaysia Danielle Heinecke.
Concurring with Alexandra, University of Tasmania pro vice-chancellor and Australia-Asean Council board member Prof Nicholas Farrelly emphasised the importance of a balanced non-interference policy for Asean's long-term resilience and success.
Specifically, in the case of Myanmar, he pointed out the significant interest in Australia in resolving such regional crises.
"If Australia and, indeed, individual Australians can make some contribution, then we would love to do so," he said, indicating Australia's willingness to assist in addressing the complex issues within the region.
In addition to Alexandra and Farrelly, Sharon Seah from Yusof Ishak Institute (ISEAS) and Kimly Ngoun from Asian Vision Institute co-authored the report.
It was launched today by the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR) in collaboration with the Australian High Commission.
As 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of Australia's dialogue partnership with Asean, the report reflects on five decades of cooperation between Asean and Australia and looks forward to the future with a series of recommendations to further strengthen this important partnership.
Australia became Asean's first Dialogue Partner in 1974.
— Bernama
