Mizzima
Political analysts have noted that the Myanmar junta’s relationship with Russia is strengthening, on a political, military and economic level, a notable change since the 2021 coup.
At the same time, the China-Myanmar relationship has been dogged by mutual mistrust after the military coup, according to the International Crisis Group (ICG).
This week the Myanmar junta leader awarded titles and medals to 27 Russians for international military cooperation between two countries including Thiri Thiha Kyaw and Thiri Thura Kyaw titles on 27 March, the 79th Armed Forces Day.
In an interview with ITAR-TASS news agency, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing said that the cooperation between Russia and Myanmar in military technology and defence had increased.
Amid the cordial and friendly relations between the two countries, the Military Council is holding the position of ASEAN-Russia Coordinator for the period of 2024-27.
According to the official announcements made by the Military Council, there were 10 negotiations and discussions between the Military Council and Russian officials concerning the nuclear sector in the period of 15 months from June 2022 to October 2023.
Concern has been voiced by critics over the military support Moscow has been providing Myanmar. The UN Special Rapporteur for human rights in Myanmar, Tom Andrews, said in his recent report that the Military Council bought Russia-made Mi-35 helicopters, MIG-29 jet fighters and YAK-130 trainers.
The Myanmar junta leader has made a number of visits to Russia over the last three years, and reciprocal visits have been made by Russian delegations to Naypyidaw.
The Military Council said that the Russian Foreign Minister signed a MoU with Myanmar for uplifting cooperation between two countries in political, economic and social sectors during the Russian FM’s visit to Myanmar last year. Russia says they are working closely with their Myanmar counterparts in trade, economics, and the cultural and education sectors. In addition, Myanmar and Russia are seeking an agreement to settle the oil trade in Myanmar Kyat and the Russian Ruble.
