The Myanmar issue is not a subject for the United Nations Security Council to discuss, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said Saturday.
This is because the Asean country is neither a security threat nor does it have a security impact on the region, he added.
The United States regards the policies of the Myanmar government a threat to international peace and security and is trying to push for a UN Security Council resolution against the Asean member country, a move opposed by China and Russia.
“Myanmar is not a subject for the UN Security Council but for other forums,” Abdullah told reporters when asked about the issue.
Abdullah was also asked about the stand of Beijing and Moscow in the matter. “I think it is a matter of principle,” he said.
Abdullah said Myanmar Prime Minister Lt Gen Soe Win had briefed Asean leaders about the ongoing national convention and other steps for democratic reforms.
“Our expression is that they continue to bring about democracy,” he said.
Asean and the international community have been telling Myanmar to undertake genuine political reforms, including the release of opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners.– Bernama.