MOSCOW – Russia has expressed its commitment to expanding cooperation with Myanmar in various sectors, including agriculture, energy, and nuclear development, despite ongoing international sanctions against both nations. During a meeting with Myanmar’s military junta leader Min Aung Hlaing today, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin emphasized the growing trade and economic relations between the two countries.
“Despite the illegitimate sanctions against Russia and Myanmar, our trade and economic cooperation is developing successfully, and mutual trade is growing,” Mishustin said, as reported by Interfax news agency.
He highlighted key areas for increased collaboration, stating, “There are good opportunities to increase our cooperation in the energy sector, peaceful nuclear energy, transport infrastructure, and agriculture.”
Mishustin also noted that Russian firms plan to invest in Myanmar’s special economic zone in Dawei, a long-delayed project on the Andaman Sea designed to be a major hub for industry, technology, and transport. However, he did not specify which companies would be involved.
Min Aung Hlaing, who rarely travels abroad, was welcomed earlier by Russian security official Sergei Shoigu and was also scheduled to meet President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin confirmed that documents would be signed to solidify agreements between the two nations.
“We have been very actively developing relations with Myanmar. This is a very important partner of ours in East Asia,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated.
Myanmar, a nation of 55 million people, has faced political turmoil since the military ousted the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021. The junta plans to hold elections this year, but critics argue they are designed to maintain military control through proxy rule.
Russia, along with China, has been a key supporter of Myanmar’s military, strengthening ties in areas such as air force cooperation. The Soviet Union first established diplomatic relations with Myanmar following its independence from Britain in 1948.