Myanmar's former junta chief plans state visit to Cambodia for cooperation talks

Myanmar's former military ruler Min Aung Hlaing has signaled an imminent state visit to Cambodia, according to a statement from his office that omitted a specific date. During the trip he will hold talks with acting head of state Hun Sen and prime minister Hun Manet, focusing on expanding cooperation across economic, cultural and various other fields. The visit aims to bolster the junta leader's quest for regional legitimacy after he assumed the presidency in April, following the 2021 coup that ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and sparked a civil war.

While many capitals have shunned Myanmar's leaders, several neighboring states—including China, India, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos—have recently received Min Aung Hlaing on diplomatic trips. The upcoming Cambodian engagement reflects his broader strategy to secure acceptance and partnerships despite ongoing criticism from democracy watchdogs.