JAKARTA (AP) Russia's top diplomat said that he supports Southeast Asian efforts to achieve peace in Myanmar during his Tuesday visit to Indonesia. This was to show Moscow how important the region is to Russia.Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov arrived in Jakarta Monday on a four day visit to Southeast Asian nations. He met with Bruneis Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah who is this year's chair of Association of Southeast Asian Nations.Retno Marsudi, his Indonesian counterpart, said that Lavrov had briefed Marsudi about the messages Russia sent to Myanmar's military leaders. He also stated that Russia considers the ASEAN position as a basis for normalizing the situation.Marsudi stressed the importance of following-up on the five points consensus that ASEAN and Myanmar's military leaders reached in April. He also asked Russia for support.She said that this requires Myanmar's military to work with ASEAN members.The consensus reached five points that violence should be stopped immediately and that constructive dialogue must begin to reach a peaceful solution.Lavrov stated that we reiterated our support for the ASEAN five principles.Lavrov also stated a deepening economic and political ties to Indonesia, which will be holding the G-20 presidency next years. The two officials also discussed preparations for President Vladimir Putin's visit to Indonesia later in the year.They also discussed the problems caused by the pandemic coronavirus in the Asia-Pacific region as well as the global challenges.Marsudi stated that Russia and Indonesia have agreed to cooperate in health matters, including COVID-19 vaccinations.Infected people are increasing in Indonesia, which has a strained health system and is struggling to provide vaccinations.Marsudi and Lavrov are set to co-chair a meeting via video with ASEAN foreign ministers, before the Russian envoy leaves for Laos.
