PHNOM PENH: Cambodian Deputy Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn briefed the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and European Commission Vice President, Josep Borrell Fontelles, on plans to form the "Friends of Myanmar" initiative of Brunei Darussalam for the provision of humanitarian assistance and support to Myanmar.

In a telephone conversation held with the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs on Thursday, 20 January, Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn highlighted Cambodia’s efforts to resolve the crisis in Myanmar in accordance with the Five-Point Consensus and the ASEAN Charter, and based on Cambodia's past experiences. He also announced plans to form a "Friends of Myanmar" group focusing on humanitarian aid, seeking support and participation from the European Union.

During the meeting, the High Representative of the EU acknowledged that the situation in Myanmar is complex and difficult, expressed his concern and sought Cambodia's plan to resolve the situation.

Although there has been little response from senior EU officials regarding the “Friends of Myanmar” initiative, Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn wrote on his Facebook page that both Cambodia and Europe have stressed the importance of finding a solution to the crisis in Myanmar.

"On the issue of Myanmar, we emphasize the importance of ending violence and providing unhindered and non-discriminatory humanitarian assistance to the people of Myanmar in need," he wrote.

The "Friends of Myanmar" initiative was started by Brunei Darussalam, during the country’s 2021 ASEAN Chairmanship, to mobilize countries to help Myanmar especially in the provision of humanitarian assistance.

During the inauguration ceremony of National Road No. 5 from Battambang to Serey Sophorn in Banteay Meanchey Province on 10 January, Prime Minister Hun Sen urged Japan to join the "Friends of Myanmar" group. Japan, in turn, has shown support for Cambodia’s policies to improve the situation in Myanmar.