Myanmar leader seeks legitimacy as Thailand pushes engagement

Myanmar's military leader Min Aung Hlaing, who seized power in a 2021 coup, visited Thailand on Thursday to seek legitimacy and re-engagement with the Southeast Asian nation. Accompanied by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Hlaing inspected an honor guard during a red-carpet welcome ceremony at Bangkok's Government House.

The junta chief, under international sanctions and efforts to normalize relations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), pledged to pursue peace, economic growth, and improved ties with ASEAN during a bilateral meeting. Hlaing's visit, following stops in China, India, and Laos, seeks recognition from the 11-member ASEAN, which dismissed Myanmar's April election.

Asean's special envoy Maria Theresa Lazaro stated that normalizing Myanmar's ties with the bloc is still far off, as compliance with the peace plan is being assessed. Rights groups and Western governments accuse the military of atrocities against civilians during the conflict that has killed an estimated 100,000 people, charges the military denies.

While Thailand's engagement efforts may strengthen its influence within ASEAN, analysts warn of the fine line between re-engaging and legitimizing Hlaing's regime. Thailand's government praised the visit, emphasizing the country's friendship with Myanmar and potential economic benefits. However, concerns remain about legitimizing Hlaing's regime and the impact of civil war on border trade and foreign investments.