Tokyo, August 1 (NationPress) On Friday, Japan expressed that the recent announcement regarding the upcoming general elections in Myanmar should act as a catalyst for restoring the democratic political system in this Southeast Asian nation.

The Japanese Foreign Ministry conveyed its serious concerns, stating that conducting general elections without any signs of political progress—such as the release of detained individuals and genuine dialogue among the involved parties—might lead to heightened backlash from the people of Myanmar, complicating efforts for a peaceful resolution.

Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi remarked, "I express my grave concern and lament the ongoing situation in Myanmar, which remains unchanged even after four and a half years since the coup d'état in February 2021. Numerous individuals, including Aung San Suu Kyi, continue to be held in detention, while violence, including airstrikes, persists without any indication of improvement."

Japan reiterated its appeal to the Myanmar military to take decisive steps to halt violence, release detainees, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and swiftly reinstate the country’s democratic framework.

"With the state of emergency now lifted, Japan sincerely hopes the Myanmar military will act responsibly. Moreover, Japan strongly desires a nationwide ceasefire and its credible enforcement, along with earnest efforts from all parties toward a peaceful resolution. Japan will also continue to support ASEAN's initiatives, including implementing the 'Five-Point Consensus', alongside humanitarian aid to address the crisis," stated the Foreign Ministry.

"Japan remains committed to listening to the voices of the Myanmar populace and engaging in dialogue with various stakeholders. Given the challenges posed by both the recent earthquake in March and the ongoing conflict, Japan will actively provide humanitarian assistance aimed at improving the lives of the people in Myanmar," the statement continued.

Earlier on Thursday, Zaw Min Tun, a spokesperson for Myanmar's State Administration Council, announced that the National Defence and Security Council (NDSC) resolved to end the state of emergency to facilitate general elections.

Back in February 2021, Myanmar's then-Acting President U Myint Swe declared a one-year state of emergency, transferring sovereign authority to the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services. This led to the formation of the State Administration Council, chaired by Min Aung Hlaing. The NDSC had repeatedly extended the state of emergency for six-month periods until July 31 of this year.