Myanmar’s Min Aung Hlaing visiting Vietnam as he seeks to normalize relations with ASEAN
Summary
Myanmar’s leader Min Aung Hlaing is visiting Vietnam to improve relations with ASEAN countries and attract foreign investment. This visit is part of his efforts to reengage with Southeast Asian nations after years of diplomatic isolation since his military takeover in 2021.Key Facts
- Min Aung Hlaing became Myanmar’s president in April 2026 after an election criticized as favoring military control.
- He is visiting Vietnam to meet with leaders and attend a business forum.
- Vietnam and Myanmar have long-standing military connections, including telecom cooperation.
- Economic ties between Myanmar and Vietnam have weakened, with trade dropping from $853 million in 2020 to $335 million in early 2026.
- Since 2026, Min Aung Hlaing traveled to several countries including India, China, Laos, Thailand, Kazakhstan, Belarus, and Russia to seek investment.
- He was isolated by ASEAN after his 2021 coup but is now making efforts to restore his position in the 11-member group.
- Min Aung Hlaing was previously barred from top ASEAN meetings for not following a peace plan agreed in April 2021.
- Western governments have imposed sanctions and avoided engagement with him after the military takeover.
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