Myanmar's Junta Chief: Diplomatic Push Amidst Global Isolation

Myanmar's junta leader Min Aung Hlaing has embarked on a diplomatic tour, visiting more countries in the last six months than since he seized power through a coup in 2021. His travels to China, Russia, and other nations aim to drum up support for an upcoming December election.

These trips facilitated meetings with global leaders such as China's Xi Jinping, Russia's Vladimir Putin, and India's Narendra Modi, boosting Min Aung Hlaing's international presence. Observers note that this new wave of diplomacy highlights his confidence amidst lessening elite threats and reduced isolation.

While state media portrays these international visits positively, Western nations critique the planned election as a strategy to maintain the junta's power. Despite international sanctions and an ongoing domestic uprising, Min Aung Hlaing's outreach suggests a strategic alignment with authoritarian states.