Myanmar's military leader met with Thailand's army chief in Bangkok on Thursday in his first international trip since assuming the post, as the post-coup administration seeks to bolster its legitimacy.
According to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED), the 2021 coup ousted the elected government and detained leader Aung San Suu Kyi, sparking a protracted civil war that has killed more than 100,000 people.
After five years of isolation, Myanmar's leadership has begun a diplomatic campaign to ease tensions. Officials emphasize the severely restricted election held in early 2026 as a sign of a return to normality, though UN experts have dismissed it as a 'sham'.
Min Aung Hlaing, who orchestrated the coup, was sworn in as Myanmar's president in April, handing over the military leadership role to Ye Win Oo.
On Thursday (August 6), Thai Defense Minister Ukris Boontanondha met with General Oo at a hotel in Bangkok. According to the Thai side, discussions focused on cooperation along the 2,400-kilometer border, measures to combat drug trafficking and online scam networks, as well as enhanced military cooperation in counter-terrorism, training, and humanitarian relief.
The visit comes weeks after Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul hosted Min Aung Hlaing in Bangkok and emphasized the desire to end the war and restore peace.
Defending the decision to host Myanmar officials, Thailand's foreign minister said it is 'not about legitimacy but about reality'.
The international community remains divided on how to deal with Myanmar after the election. Democratic groups call the vote a farce designed to refurbish the military government, sideline Aung San Suu Kyi, marginalize her party, and punish dissidents with prison sentences. However, Thailand and neighboring countries sharing borders with Myanmar have viewed the vote as an opportunity to restore ties.
