Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls for ‘peaceful resolution’ as deadly crackdown intensifies

“As a next-door neighbour sharing a long common border with Myanmar … Thailand continues to follow developments in Myanmar with much concern,” read a statement issued by the ministry on Thursday.

“As with other countries, we are saddened by the loss of lives and sufferings of the people of Myanmar due to escalating violence in the country,” it continued.

The statement was issued amid reports of at least one death in Mandalay and one in Yangon on Thursday afternoon, as security forces continued a crackdown that has claimed dozens of lives since a military coup against the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it “reiterates the statements made by Brunei Darussalam as Asean chair [on February 1 and March 2], which called on all sides in Myanmar to exercise utmost restraint as well as flexibility”.

“We call for de-escalation of the situation and release of detainees. We also urge all parties concerned to seek a peaceful solution for Myanmar and its people through dialogue via any constructive channels.”

According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, more than 1,900 people have been arrested across the country since the coup.

“Thailand supports Asean’s readiness to assist Myanmar, an Asean family member, in a positive, peaceful and constructive manner,” the ministry's statement added.

On Thursday, Amnesty International reported evidence that the regime was deploying semi-automatic rifles, sniper rifles and light machine guns in increasing numbers against protesters.

“Make no mistake, we are in a deadly new phase of the crisis,” said the rights group.