Myanmar military offensive targets land for Russia-backed Dawei port project
Myanmar's military has deployed hundreds of troops to forcibly clear areas marked for a Russia-backed special economic zone in the country's south, burning villages and sealing off surrounding tracts of land, according to resistance fighters ‌and a local activist with direct knowledge.
Myanmar's military has forcefully cleared land earmarked for a Russia-backed special economic zone in the country's south, burning villages and surrounding areas, according to resistance fighters and a local activist. The Dawei Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which includes a proposed deep-sea port and power plant, is located on the Andaman Sea.
This military action signifies the junta's determination to revive the project, which is seen as an alternative route to the Strait of Malacca. The push for the SEZ comes alongside a diplomatic effort, with the military chief-turned-President Min Aung Hlaing promoting Dawei during visits to Thailand and Russia. In July, hundreds of soldiers were deployed to Tanintharyi Region, where Dawei is situated, leading to clashes with resistance groups.
The military continues to advance columns and conduct area-clearance operations, burning homes and killing civilians. Since the project's launch in 2008, it has faced opposition and funding issues, but Myanmar's new government, supported by Russia, is now attempting to revive it to improve trade and create jobs.
Written by urgent.news from Bangkok Post Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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