Bangkok, Feb. 19 -- Thailand is stepping up efforts to act as a "bridge" to help Myanmar reintegrate into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) following its recent election, while urging Nay Pyi Taw to address concerns raised by the region and the international community.

The message was delivered by Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow after talks with his Myanmar counterpart Than Swe on February 18 in Phuket, southern Thailand.

Sihasak said Thailand's policy is to gradually engage with Myanmar as a frontline country directly affected by developments along their shared border. He stressed that Thailand's key objective is to help Myanmar return to the ASEAN fold, while Myanmar must also respond to the bloc's concern...