KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres today held in-depth discussions on issues concerning Myanmar and Palestine.
The Prime Minister’s Office in a statement said the talks were held after Guterres contacted Muhyiddin by phone, in a show of the UN’s recognition of the important role played by Malaysia in matters related to Myanmar and Palestine.
“In the discussions, both leaders stated their regret and concern with regard to security in Myanmar, which has not shown any positive development.
“On this issue, the prime minister said Malaysia and other Asean countries held a meeting in April to find a solution to the conflict in Myanmar.”
Muhyiddin is also of the view that the UN and Asean can cooperate to reach a resolution to the political crisis in Myanmar, especially through the five-point consensus attained during the Asean Leaders’ Conference.
The appointment of a special envoy of the Asean chair is being finalised in efforts to seek a peaceful solution in the interest of Myanmar residents.
The statement said Muhyiddin and Guterres agreed that all parties involved should cooperate constructively, with the aim of ensuring political and economic stability in Myanmar.
On Palestine, they concurred that the suffering of Palestinians must stop immediately.
Both said they regret the violence inflicted by the Israeli army on Palestinians, and expressed hope that a solution is found to ensure lasting peace for both sides.
“On this principle, Muhyiddin stressed Malaysia’s consistent stand on the establishment of a free and independent Palestinian nation through the two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders, with Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine,” said the statement.
Muhyddin also expressed support for the ceasefire on both sides, and efforts by the UN and other countries involved to ensure compliance with the halt in fighting. – Bernama, May 27, 2021
