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MMNN Diplomatic Report: GCC Calls for Renewed Global Action on Myanmar’s Crisis
By Myanmar Muslims News Network (MMNN)
📍Kuala Lumpur | May 24, 2025
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has voiced deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian and political turmoil in Myanmar, citing the lack of meaningful progress since the country’s military coup in 2021.
Dr. Abdel Aziz Abu Hamad Aluwaisheg, Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Negotiations at the GCC, emphasized the need for urgent international action during an exclusive interview ahead of the ASEAN-GCC Summits being held in Kuala Lumpur this week.
“What’s happening in Myanmar is extremely alarming,” he said. “The situation cannot be ignored, and the international community must step up with real solutions.”
Stalled Peace and Humanitarian Impact
Despite diplomatic efforts, the situation in Myanmar remains grim. The military-led government has largely resisted calls for political dialogue, while violence and displacement continue to affect millions — particularly ethnic minorities and the Rohingya population.
Aluwaisheg acknowledged the complexity of the crisis but insisted that this should not be an excuse for global inaction.
“Efforts by the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to mediate or offer support have been hampered by the authorities in Myanmar,” he added.
The Rohingya Crisis and Regional Displacement
The GCC official also highlighted the plight of displaced Rohingya communities, many of whom remain in precarious conditions in neighboring countries, including Bangladesh. He reaffirmed the need to guarantee their voluntary, safe, and dignified return and expressed support for international efforts to assist Bangladesh’s ongoing humanitarian response.
ASEAN’s Role Under Scrutiny
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been criticized for its limited progress in addressing the Myanmar crisis, even after adopting a Five-Point Consensus in 2021. The consensus called for an end to violence, the start of inclusive dialogue, and humanitarian access, but little progress has materialized.
Malaysia, which holds the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, has been active in diplomatic outreach and is seen as playing a central role in pushing for a more robust and effective ASEAN-led response.
Multilateral Support Needed
Dr. Aluwaisheg stressed the importance of stronger collaboration between regional organizations and international bodies to build momentum for peace in Myanmar. He said the GCC remains committed to supporting ASEAN and the broader international community in developing political and humanitarian solutions that uphold human rights and stability in the region.
The call comes ahead of high-level discussions at the ASEAN-GCC Summit and the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, scheduled for May 26–27, where Myanmar’s situation is expected to be a central topic.
MMNN – Myanmar Muslims News Network
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