Myanmar's Min Aung Hlaing arrives in Thailand on first trip as civilian leader
Summary
Myanmar's military leader Min Aung Hlaing visited Thailand for the first time since he took power in a 2021 coup that removed the elected government. Thailand welcomed him with official meetings and business events, despite criticism from other Southeast Asian nations and international groups concerned about the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar.Key Facts
- Min Aung Hlaing led a military coup in Myanmar in 2021, overthrowing the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi.
- The coup caused a civil war in Myanmar, killing thousands and harming the economy.
- Min Aung Hlaing was declared president in April after an election criticized as unfair and excluding opposition parties.
- He has faced sanctions and accusations of crimes against humanity, especially for actions against the Rohingya Muslim minority in 2017.
- ASEAN barred Min Aung Hlaing from meetings due to his refusal to follow a 2021 agreement aimed at reducing violence and starting talks with opposition groups.
- Thailand chose to welcome Min Aung Hlaing officially, citing shared border concerns and the need for government talks on issues like cross-border crime.
- China and India have also officially recognized Myanmar’s military government and invited Min Aung Hlaing for visits.
- Critics say Thailand’s diplomatic engagement gives the military regime false legitimacy and may worsen Myanmar’s humanitarian problems.
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