Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Deputy Chair of The Elders and former Secretary-General of the United Nations paid a visit to Myanmar from 23 to 24 April 2023. During the visit, he discussed with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Administration Council and the Prime Minister of Myanmar, General Mya Tun Oo, Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister for Defence and U Than Swe, Minister for Foreign Affairs in Nay Pyi Taw. Mr. Ban Ki Moon also informally met with former President U Thein Sein and visited the construction project of the Maravijaya Buddha Image in Dekkhinathiri Township.

During the meetings, Myanmar side explained about the real situations of the country and the discussions were constructive. Mr. Ban Ki Moon mentioned that following the discussion by Myanmar side, he came to realize more on the complexity of Myanmar’s issue and not only himself but also The Elders will try their best to contribute Myanmar. While Myanmar side discussed the failure of WHO to provide Covid-19 vaccines from COVAX Facility in Myanmar even at its peak of third wave of COVID-19 in Myanmar, Mr. Ban Ki Moon responded that he would mention this point during his meeting with WHO Director-General soon.

However, there mentioned a media release on The Elders’ website on 25 April 2023. The elements of the said release are different from actual discussions and include distorted facts. Indeed, Myanmar’s issue at present is purely its internal affairs. The Government of Myanmar is exerting its utmost efforts for the stability and development of the country.

In viewing Myanmar, the international community including The Elders must take into account of the root causes and analyse the prevailing situation in a balanced manner. It is also necessary not to make one-sided suggestions which do not reflect the reality but to take pragmatic recommendations and practical cooperation which will bring real benefit to Myanmar.