The Japanese government issued a statement on September 1st regarding the current situation in Myanmar, demanding the immediate release of Myanmar’s democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners. The statement warned that the military’s plans to hold elections would trigger strong opposition from the Myanmar people and further complicate peaceful resolution of the Myanmar crisis. The government expressed deep concern about the ongoing situation in Myanmar, where there has been no sign of improvement in the four and a half years since the military seized power in February 2021.
Japan strongly criticized the continuing airstrikes and other forms of violence in Myanmar. While the military regime has announced plans to lift the state of emergency and hold general elections in December and January, the Japanese government cautioned that conducting elections without releasing detainees and holding inclusive dialogue would only intensify public resistance and make peaceful resolution more difficult. The statement emphasized three key demands: an immediate end to violence, the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and all political prisoners, and swift restoration of Myanmar’s democratic system.
The Japanese government expressed hope for a nationwide ceasefire and practical implementation of democratic transition in Myanmar. They emphasized their expectation that all stakeholders in Myanmar’s political future would work sincerely toward a peaceful resolution. Japan also reaffirmed its full support for ASEAN’s efforts to resolve the Myanmar crisis, particularly the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus, including the provision of humanitarian assistance. The statement highlighted Japan’s commitment to carefully listening to the voices of Myanmar’s people and continuing discussions with all relevant parties.
Furthermore, Japan pledged to continue providing humanitarian assistance and support to Myanmar’s people who have been affected by both the March earthquake and the long-running conflicts in the country. The government emphasized its role in supporting the Myanmar people through these challenging times, while maintaining its position on the necessity of restoring democratic governance. The statement reflected Japan’s balanced approach of maintaining pressure on the military regime while extending support to the Myanmar people through humanitarian assistance and diplomatic engagement, demonstrating its commitment to supporting Myanmar’s return to democratic rule through peaceful means.
