Thailand-Myanmar relations

Thailand can – and should – be playing a more active role in mediating the Myanmar's expanding conflict.

The former leader met officials from the opposition National Unity Government and a number of ethnic armed groups during recent trips to northern Thailand.

Maris Sangiampongsa, a former ambassador to Australia, Fiji, and Nepal, will replace the outgoing foreign minister, who resigned unexpectedly over the weekend.

The unexpected resignation comes at a time when the Thai policy toward its troubled neighbor remains in flux.

The border town of Myawaddy has now fallen and ethnic rebels want negotiations with the Thai government.

The impending fall of the border town of Myawaddy to ethnic Karen rebels has raised fears of junta air attacks that could drive thousands of civilians into Thailand.

Critics say that the military junta's involvement in the aid program will prevent the assistance from reaching many of those most in need.

Despite a marked shift in the country's approach to its war-torn neighbor, a comprehensive political dialogue is unlikely – at least for now.

The case for proactive, multilateral, pro-peace diplomacy.

Don Pramudwinai reportedly described the secret meeting as a breakthrough. It is more accurate to view it as a setback.

Key ASEAN member states, including current chair Indonesia, will skip the talks, which are intended to "fully re-engage" Myanmar's military government.