Asia-Pacific nations expressed concern Monday after reports that the Myanmar military had staged a coup and detained several political figures including leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the reports as "troubling" and reiterated a statement by the country's foreign ministry saying that Canberra was "deeply concerned" by Suu Kyi's detention and reports that the military was "once again seeking to seize control of Myanmar."
Earlier on Monday a spokesperson for Myanmar's ruling National League for Democracy said Suu Kyi, along with other senior party officials, had been detained by the military, following the party's victory in the November general election.
Myanmar's state broadcaster said it was unable to provide regular broadcasts on TV or radio, in what could be a sign of the military disrupting the airwaves.
A spokesperson for Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the government had "grave concern" about the situation in Myanmar and hopes "all parties involved will exercise restraint, maintain dialogue, and work towards a positive and peaceful outcome."
New Zealand's Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta said in a statement that Wellington was a "long-standing supporter of Myanmar's democratic transition" and called for the release of all political actors who have been detained, including Suu Kyi and President Win Myint.
"An election has taken place and the democratic will of the people must be respected," Mahuta said.
Related coverage:
Myanmar military stages coup, says it has seized power
U.S. urges Suu Kyi release, warns of action if situation not reversed
Japan urges Myanmar to uphold democracy after military stages coup
