Myanmar’s Min Aung Hlaing in Thailand on legitimacy quest as Bangkok backs engagement

Myanmar’s junta leader, Min Aung Hlaing, embarked on an official visit to Thailand on Thursday, receiving a ceremonial welcome as part of Thailand’s diplomatic push for renewed engagement with the war-torn nation. The retired general, who seized power in a 2021 military coup, has been on a quest for international legitimacy since assuming the presidency in April, following a closely watched election dominated by an army-backed party and the absence of a viable opposition.

During the arrival ceremony in Bangkok, a military band performed national anthems from both countries as Hlaing, dressed in a dark business suit, strolled down a red carpet alongside Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to inspect an honor guard. The visit comes as Myanmar grapples with a ongoing civil war following the 2021 coup, prompting Thailand to pursue a "calibrated reengagement" strategy.

Thailand hopes that Myanmar will adhere to a stalled peace plan proposed by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which has barred the country’s leaders from its summits due to the military regime’s involvement. With the civil war still raging and the international community imposing Western sanctions on Hlaing and his regime, the visit underscores Thailand's efforts to engage Myanmar on a path towards stability and peace.