Myanmar Junta Chief Min Aung Hlaing to Attend BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand

Myanmar's junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, is scheduled to attend the upcoming BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok from April 3–4, according to sources with direct knowledge. This rare international visit comes amid ongoing civil unrest in Myanmar and widespread international sanctions against the military regime.

Sources told Reuters that Myanmar’s delegation is actively pursuing bilateral meetings with leaders attending the summit, including India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh's interim chief adviser Muhammed Yunus. Thailand’s foreign ministry confirmed that all BIMSTEC leaders, including Myanmar’s, have confirmed their participation.

Ongoing Crisis and Search for Legitimacy

Min Aung Hlaing seized power in a 2021 coup that ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. Since then, Myanmar has faced widespread protests and an escalating armed rebellion. The United Nations estimates that over one-third of Myanmar’s population is now in need of humanitarian aid.

The junta chief's visit to Thailand is viewed as a strategic effort to gain international legitimacy ahead of an election he claims will restore democracy. On Thursday, he announced that Myanmar would hold a general election in December, promising a “free and fair vote” and a transfer of power to the winning party—claims critics have dismissed as an attempt to maintain military control.

Limited Travel Amid Global Legal Scrutiny

Min Aung Hlaing has faced significant global condemnation, with the military accused of human rights violations and atrocities, particularly against the Rohingya community. In November, the International Criminal Court announced it was seeking an arrest warrant against him for alleged crimes against humanity.

Due to sanctions and diplomatic isolation, his international travel has been minimal, previously limited to visits to China and Russia. The upcoming summit in Thailand represents a rare opportunity for regional engagement.

About BIMSTEC

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional grouping that includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The 2025 summit aims to strengthen economic, political, and security ties among member nations.

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