The talks took place at Trisara during the Ministers’ Retreat, at what Mr Sihasak called a “crucial juncture” for Myanmar and for Thailand as a frontline state sharing more than 2,400 kilometres of border with its neighbour.
Speaking after the meeting at 4:30pm, Mr Sihasak stressed that Thailand’s primary interest is lasting peace and stability in Myanmar, citing direct implications for border security, international relations and economic cooperation.
“As a neighbouring country, Thailand is directly affected,” he said, pointing to annual border trade valued at more than B200 billion, as well as ongoing concerns over transnational crime, scam networks, drug trafficking, illegal immigration and environmental impacts along shared waterways.
ELECTION ‘A CRITICAL OPPORTUNITY’
The Myanmar delegation briefed Thailand on the recent election process, stating that voting had proceeded smoothly and that a new government is expected to be formed before April, ahead of the Songkran festival.
Myanmar also reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue and reconciliation with all parties, including ethnic groups and those advocating for democracy, said an official report of the meeting.
Of note, Than Shwe was leader of the ruling military junta in Myanmar from 1992 to 2011.
While the Thai side described the election as incomplete, Mr Sihasak said it could represent a “critical opportunity” to advance practical implementation of the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus, which has seen limited progress over the past five years.
Thailand expressed readiness to support Myanmar’s return to fuller engagement within ASEAN, and to act as a bridge between Naypyidaw and the regional bloc.
However, Mr Sihasak emphasised that the discussions did not amount to recognition of Myanmar’s military administration or a normalisation of relations.
“This is not about endorsement,” he said. “It is about maintaining channels of communication and supporting reconciliation under the principle of ‘Myanmar-led, Myanmar-owned’.”
Under that approach, he explained, Myanmar must lead and take ownership of the peace process, while Thailand stands ready to facilitate dialogue if all parties are prepared.
Thailand also urged Myanmar to address concerns raised by the international community, including allowing greater access for humanitarian assistance, reducing violence and avoiding attacks on civilians.
Both sides agreed to step up cooperation on border security, transnational crime, drug suppression and the dismantling of scam operations, which have affected communities on both sides of the frontier.
Environmental concerns, including river pollution along shared waterways, were also raised.
The ministers discussed the potential revitalisation of border trade, particularly at the Mae Sot-Myawaddy crossing along the Asian Highway (AH1), which is currently undergoing repairs. Should conditions stabilise, there is scope to reopen additional checkpoints to stimulate local economies.
Thailand signalled its readiness to support local-level negotiations aimed at building trust and paving the way for renewed investment and business activities by the Thai private sector in Myanmar.
Mr Sihasak said economic engagement could help foster long-term stability, benefiting not only Myanmar but the wider region.
PASSPORT OFFICE VISIT, TOURISM POLICY
Mr Sihasak yesterday also inspected the Phuket Temporary Passport Office at Central Phuket Festival, where he delivered a policy address focused on ‘Diplomacy for the People’.
He was welcomed by Kanita Saipaisarn, head of the office, and staff.
The minister emphasised the importance of improving provincial and regional consular services, particularly passport issuance and document notarisation, to ensure fast and efficient access for the public.
He also underscored the role of provincial offices in coordinating with government agencies, the private sector and honorary consuls to support foreign affairs missions in key provinces such as Phuket.
On tourism ‒ a major economic driver for the island ‒ Mr Sihasak called for a focus on sustainable development, attracting “quality tourists”, enhancing safety, encouraging visitors to respect Thai laws and customs, and improving infrastructure and the country’s international image.
In remarks touching on national policy, Mr Sihasak said the Bhumjaithai Party is reconsidering its visa exemption scheme, reviewing a proposal to reduce the current 60-day visa-free stay back to 30 days for eligible visitors.
Mr Sihasak also met members of the public using passport services to gather feedback aimed at improving ministry operations.
The Phuket Temporary Passport Office, located on the third floor of the old building at Central Phuket Festival, is open Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) from 9am to 5pm, with the last queue accepted at 4:30pm.