THE agenda of fair cooperation, Myanmar issues, regional stability and Islamophobia were among the focus points of a discussion at the Asean Foreign Ministers’ Retreat (AMM Retreat), according to Foreign Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir.

He said Asean members want to establish good cooperation with various countries and blocs to increase trade and be a platform in solving any problems.

“Asean always emphasises a form of cooperation based on fair and equitable principles that can benefit all parties,” he told the Malaysian media at the AMM Retreat in Jakarta today.

Zambry said the good relations that have already been established can be maintained without discrimination and without placing certain conditions on Asean.

He saoid the European Union’s decisions preventing the entry of commodities from this region into its markets, with various obstacles and reasons, have displeased Asean.

Regarding Myanmar, Zambry said Asean continues to engage with all stakeholders to find a solution without setting a timeframe.

Asean also hopes an inclusive negotiation process can be carried out in Myanmar to restore democracy.

“We do not want to give a deadline to resolve such a complex matter in the politics and atmosphere of the country, because it involves various parties and negotiations,” he said.

Participants of the meeting chaired by Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi agreed to ensure the Asean region is free from conflicts and threats from “major powers”.

According to Zambry, this region, especially the South China Sea, cannot be allowed to become a place of new battles or “flashpoints” that can lead to destabilisation.

“Malaysia and Asean need to play a role as mediators if there is any conflict in the future,” he said. – Bernama, February 4, 2023.