KUALA LUMPUR - Thailand and Myanmar are discussing efforts to rebuild Myanmar’s engagement with ASEAN after ties weakened following the military takeover five years ago.

Thai Foreign Minister. Sihasak Phuangketkeow met his Myanmar counterpart, U Than Swe, for informal talks in Phuket, last Wednesday.

The discussions covered several current issues, including ASEAN relations and cooperation in tackling online scams.

“Both ministers exchanged views on the way forward to promote a calibrated re-engagement between ASEAN and Myanmar, with Thailand acting as a bridge.

“Thailand will continue to encourage positive developments in Myanmar, taking into account the completion of elections and the upcoming formation of the new Myanmar government,” the Thai Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Thursday.

Myanmar’s state media, The Global New Light of Myanmar, reported that both sides also agreed to strengthen cooperation in addressing transnational crimes such as online scams, human trafficking and drug trafficking.

Myanmar completed its three-phase elections on Jan 25, following earlier rounds held on December 28 and January 11, marking the first polls since the military removed the civilian government in February 2021.

Media reports said the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party is expected to form the new government after winning a landslide victory.