Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing Criticizes ASEAN’s Peace Plan

Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing has accused ASEAN of discrimination against his country and criticized the regional peace plan. The government has announced plans to conduct by-elections in 172 constituencies in 2027 and to intensify measures against illegal activities. President Hlaing stated that it will take another five years to fully advance the process of nation-building and called on rebel groups to come forward for talks.

Speaking in parliament, President Hlaing alleged that ASEAN has discriminated against Myanmar. He said, “We have become patient. We will respond to activities that are not constructive.” By-elections will be held in 172 constituencies where voting could not take place due to unrest during elections in December and January. The government has invited rebel groups to unconditional peace negotiations.

So far, talks have been held with 13 ethnic armed organizations. The government is cracking down on illegal money laundering, arms trafficking, drug trade, and online scam centers. Myanmar has prioritized the India-Myanmar-Thailand highway and the Mandalay-Muse railway projects.

The government is working on 10 hydropower projects, including the controversial Myitsone Dam. Efforts are also underway to build a nuclear power plant in Myanmar. The government will allocate 10 percent of the budget for the education sector in the coming fiscal year, increasing it to 15 percent by the 2028–2029 fiscal year.