Myanmar's leader Min Aung Hlaing departed on Monday for Russia for talks with President Vladimir Putin, Naypyidaw announced. This marks the first visit to Moscow by the former junta chief since he became civilian president in April. The trip aims to "further consolidate the longstanding friendly and close relations between Myanmar and Russia and to enhance strategic cooperation", notably on security and the economy, the Myanmar presidency said in a statement.
Russia was one of the few countries that backed Myanmar after the 2021 military coup that ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, triggering a civil war estimated to have killed more than 100,000 people. Min Aung Hlaing was installed as Myanmar's president in April following stage-managed elections dismissed as a sham by Western nations and democracy watchdogs.
During his visit, Min Aung Hlaing will meet Russia's prime minister, the speaker of the lower house of parliament, the State Duma, and attend a Myanmar-Russia economic forum. He is accompanied by other senior officials. The Myanmar military uses Russian-made jets against rebel factions and is also accused of targeting civilians, in attacks some conflict monitors say amount to war crimes.
Myanmar and Russia signed a five-year military cooperation pact in February, although details were scant. Min Aung Hlaing has made several trips overseas since April, including to China, India and neighbouring Thailand, as he seeks to bring his pariah state back into the international fold.
FAQ
Q: Why is Min Aung Hlaing visiting Russia? A: Min Aung Hlaing is visiting Russia to consolidate friendly relations and enhance strategic cooperation, particularly in security and economic matters.
Q: What is the significance of Russia's support for Myanmar? A: Russia's support for Myanmar is significant as it was one of the few countries that backed Myanmar after the 2021 military coup, providing political and possibly military support.
Q: What military cooperation exists between Myanmar and Russia? A: Myanmar and Russia signed a five-year military cooperation pact in February, though specific details of this agreement have not been widely disclosed. The Myanmar military uses Russian-made jets in its operations against rebel factions.
Q: How has the international community reacted to Min Aung Hlaing's presidency? A: Min Aung Hlaing's presidency has been widely dismissed as a sham by Western nations and democracy watchdogs, leading to Myanmar being considered a pariah state in the international community.
