US begins direct talks with Myanmar in reversal of isolation attempts following military coup
The US Assistant Secretary of State for Intelligence and Research, Michael Vance, played a leading role in the outreach, which has focused on shutting down scam centers that target Americans.
In a significant shift in US policy, the administration has initiated direct talks with Myanmar's military-backed government following the 2021 coup. The effort, spearheaded by US Assistant Secretary of State for Intelligence and Research Michael Vance, aims to address issues such as scam centers and Myanmar's rare-earth mineral deposits, potentially leading to broader engagement.
Vance met with coup leader Min Aung Hlaing in Naypyitaw on September 15-16, aiming to secure the release of American businessman Adam Castillo, though other broader engagement avenues were also opened. The military, under sanctions for past human rights abuses, remains a contentious issue, with the US seeking to diversify supply chains away from China, which currently imports much of its rare earths.
Despite the challenges, the US continues to engage with all sides in Myanmar, emphasizing the importance of addressing problems rather than ignoring them.
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Also reported by 5 other outlets
- US opens direct talks with Myanmar’s generals, reversing years of isolation freemalaysiatoday.com
- Anwar Ibrahim, Min Aung Hlaing hold talks on Myanmar refugee repatriation nst.com.my
- Anwar-Min Aung Hlaing talks focus on refugees, not recognition of Myanmar govt, says Fahmi malaymail.com
- General : Anwar, Min Aung Hlaing Hold Four-eyed Meeting, Delegation Talks bernama.com
- US opens direct talks with Myanmar's generals, reversing years of isolation channelnewsasia.com
