Myanmar's military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, has arrived in Thailand for an official visit, his first since orchestrating the 2021 coup that ousted the elected government. The visit, described by Thailand as "calibrated re-engagement," aims to address issues such as transnational crime along their shared border.
Min Aung Hlaing, who declared himself president in April after stepping down as military commander, has been a pariah on the international stage. He faces sanctions from Western countries and accusations of crimes against humanity, particularly for his role in the 2017 expulsion of Rohingya Muslims. The coup he led ignited a civil war that has resulted in thousands of deaths and significantly damaged Myanmar's economy.
Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul welcomed Min Aung Hlaing with a red-carpet ceremony, and the Myanmar leader is scheduled to attend an official dinner, meet with parliamentary leaders, and preside over a business forum aimed at boosting economic ties. This approach by Thailand contrasts with the stance of many Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) members, which have called for more concessions from Myanmar's military to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and end the civil war before restoring full diplomatic contact.
Min Aung Hlaing has been barred from attending Asean meetings due to his refusal to implement a 2021 five-point consensus that called for de-escalation of violence and negotiations with opposition groups. However, Thailand, sharing a lengthy border with Myanmar, emphasizes the need for high-level government communication to manage shared challenges.
Thailand's decision to host Min Aung Hlaing follows similar diplomatic moves by Myanmar's larger neighbors, China and India. Both nations recognized the new government and invited the military leader for official visits shortly after he assumed the presidency. China's support has been crucial for the Myanmar military, aiding it in regaining territory from armed opposition groups.
The high-profile visit by Thailand, a democratic nation and a founding member of Asean, has drawn criticism. Campaigning group Justice for Myanmar stated that "The Thai government continues to lend the junta false legitimacy through its ongoing diplomatic engagements." The group added that Min Aung Hlaing's visit "reflects Thailand's failed policy of 'calibrated re-engagement' with the military junta, which will only prolong the ongoing suffering of the people of Myanmar."