ASEAN leaders reportedly meet in Thailand to discuss the ongoing political crisis in Myanmar.
Government and think-tank representatives from Myanmar and neighboring Southeast Asian countries traveled to India as they talked about ways how to de-escalate the Myanmar crisis.
Among the representatives who attended the private meeting came from Thailand, China, India, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos.
The group allegedly talked about reducing violence, delivery of humanitarian aid, and creating space for dialogue in Myanmar.
The Military Junta ruling Myanmar refused to negotiate with Western countries but opened its doors to representatives from Thailand and stepped up its engagement with Russia.
According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, an estimated 22,400 Myanmar refugees have sought safety in Thailand since February 2021.
The foreign ministries from Thailand, India, and China, as well as Myanmar’s State Administrative Council, have not provided any response regarding the alleged private meeting.
Australia to spend $4.1-B for missiles, weapons
Australia will invest billions of dollars to purchase long-range missiles and manufacture guided weapons to improve the country’s defense forces.
The Federal government will be spending $4.1-B for the next four years buying and making missiles as part of its strategic defense plan.
As part of its defense strategy, $1.6bn will be allocated for long-range strike capabilities and $2.5bn for local production of guided weapons.
The Australian government will spend the next four years focusing on the modernization of its northern military base.
Defense Minister Richard Marles said the air force must also be equipped to support operations in the north.
The defense minister also acknowledged how the northern bases serve as a ‘huge asset and critical to Australia’s ability to project.’
The initial release of Australia’s Defense strategic review earlier this week urged the government to reduce the number of infantry vehicles and focus instead on funding missiles and other priorities.
The investment is part of the government’s plan to improve the Australian defense forces in the wake of major power strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific.
