Min Aung Hlaing visits Thailand to seek political legitimacy and strengthen regional economic ties
President Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar arrived in Thailand for an official visit to bolster diplomatic relations and seek political legitimacy following his 2021 military coup. During the visit, Min Aung Hlaing met with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to sign memorandums of understanding regarding migrant workers, water quality, and space technology. Min Aung Hlaing expressed confidence in Myanmar's path toward democracy and stability, while Anutin Charnvirakul defended Thailand's 'calibrated re-engagement' policy, which aims to maintain dialogue with the military regime to address regional issues like transnational crime. Despite the official warm welcome, the visit faced criticism from civil society groups and opposition politicians. Critics argued that the Thai government is granting false legitimacy to a military regime marked by widespread violence and alleged war crimes. While the military-backed government has held elections, many observers noted that real authority in large areas remains with armed insurgents. The visit highlights Thailand's proactive role in ASEAN as it seeks to balance regional stability with the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar.