Myanmar's junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, is set to participate in the upcoming BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok on April 3-4, 2025, marking one of his rare international engagements since orchestrating the 2021 military coup that plunged Myanmar into a civil war. This move comes amid international scrutiny and sanctions imposed on Myanmar's military leadership. ​

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) comprises seven member countries: Thailand, Myanmar, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan. The summit serves as a platform to enhance regional cooperation, connectivity, and economic integration among South and Southeast Asian nations. Thailand, as the current chair, will host this significant event, with all member states confirming their participation. ​

Min Aung Hlaing's attendance is particularly noteworthy given his exclusion from ASEAN summits due to the military's failure to implement an agreed peace plan with the bloc. His participation in BIMSTEC indicates an attempt to re-engage with regional leaders and possibly legitimize his leadership on the international stage.

According to sources, the Myanmar delegation is actively seeking bilateral meetings with key figures, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh's interim chief adviser, Muhammed Yunus. These potential engagements underscore Myanmar's intent to strengthen diplomatic ties and address regional concerns amidst its internal turmoil. ​

India has confirmed Prime Minister Modi's attendance at the summit, highlighting the event's importance in fostering regional cooperation and addressing shared challenges. The participation of leaders like Modi emphasizes the collective commitment to enhancing connectivity and security within the BIMSTEC framework. ​

Since the coup, Myanmar has experienced widespread civil unrest, with mass protests escalating into an armed rebellion against the junta. The United Nations estimates that over a third of Myanmar's population now requires humanitarian assistance, highlighting the severity of the crisis. ​

In a recent development, Min Aung Hlaing announced plans to hold elections in December 2025, promising a "free and fair vote" and a subsequent transfer of power to the winning party. However, critics view this move as a strategic ploy to prolong military rule under the guise of democratic transition. ​

Internationally, Min Aung Hlaing remains a controversial figure, facing widespread sanctions and accusations of atrocities committed by Myanmar's military. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has signaled intentions to seek a warrant for his arrest over alleged crimes against humanity related to the persecution of the Rohingya minority. ​

His travel history has been limited, with previous visits primarily to Russia and China, nations that have maintained diplomatic ties with Myanmar's military regime. The upcoming trip to Thailand represents a significant shift, potentially indicating a desire to broaden diplomatic engagement within the region. ​

As the BIMSTEC summit approaches, the international community will closely monitor Min Aung Hlaing's interactions and the outcomes of any bilateral meetings. The summit presents an opportunity for regional leaders to address pressing issues, including Myanmar's internal conflict, and to explore avenues for peaceful resolution and humanitarian assistance.​

In conclusion, Min Aung Hlaing's participation in the BIMSTEC summit is a pivotal development in Myanmar's complex political landscape. It underscores the junta's efforts to navigate international isolation and seek legitimacy amidst ongoing domestic unrest and global condemnation.​

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