Min Aung Hlaing to Join BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand
Junta Leader’s Rare Foreign Visit Highlights Regional Diplomacy
Myanmar’s military leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, is set to attend the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) summit in Bangkok from April 2-4. This marks a rare foreign trip for the junta chief since seizing power in a 2021 coup, which led to widespread civil unrest.
Earthquake Aftermath Overshadows Summit Participation
Myanmar Faces Devastating Humanitarian Crisis
The visit comes as Myanmar grapples with the aftermath of a catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake, the deadliest in over a century, which has claimed nearly 3,000 lives and left thousands injured. Despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis, Min Aung Hlaing aims to use the summit as a platform to discuss international cooperation for relief and rehabilitation efforts.
Western Sanctions and ASEAN Exclusion
Junta Chief’s Limited Diplomatic Channels
Min Aung Hlaing’s participation in the BIMSTEC summit is significant as he remains under Western sanctions and is barred from attending ASEAN meetings due to his failure to uphold a peace agreement. The Bangkok meeting offers a rare opportunity for the isolated leader to engage with regional counterparts.
Thailand Confirms In-Person Attendance
Thai Officials Provide Limited Details
Thailand’s foreign ministry has confirmed that Min Aung Hlaing will attend the summit in person. However, specific details about his travel plans remain undisclosed. Earlier reports had suggested the possibility of remote participation, but Thai officials later clarified his physical presence at the event.
Diplomatic Implications of the Earthquake
Natural Disaster Opens New Channels for Dialogue
The recent earthquake has inadvertently bolstered Min Aung Hlaing’s diplomatic position by reopening avenues for international engagement that were previously closed due to Myanmar’s political turmoil. The summit provides a platform for Myanmar to seek regional support amid its ongoing crisis.
BIMSTEC Summit Overview
Regional Cooperation Takes Center Stage
The BIMSTEC summit will bring together leaders from member countries including Thailand, Myanmar, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan. The meeting aims to enhance regional cooperation in technical and economic sectors while addressing pressing issues like disaster response and recovery.
