Myanmar’s president Min Aung Hlaing will visit Vietnam from September 4 to 6, as his administration steps up diplomatic engagement with regional governments following elections widely criticized as lacking credibility.

During the visit, Min Aung Hlaing is expected to meet Vietnamese President To Lam, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung and the president of the National Assembly. The talks are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties and expanding economic cooperation.

According to AFP, Min Aung Hlaing will also attend the Myanmar-Vietnam Business Forum 2026 and visit facilities linked to Vietnam’s digital and electronics industries. Myanmar’s Foreign Ministry said the visit is aimed at promoting “mutually beneficial cooperation” between the two countries.

The trip is part of a broader diplomatic push by Myanmar’s military-backed leadership to overcome its international isolation following the 2021 coup, which ousted the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi and plunged the country into a devastating civil war.

Min Aung Hlaing became president in April after elections that excluded Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy and were held in large areas controlled by armed opposition groups. Critics have described the vote as a means of legitimizing military rule.

Despite widespread international criticism, several countries in the region have increased engagement with Min Aung Hlaing. India, Laos and Thailand have hosted him, while Russia and Belarus have remained close diplomatic partners. China also received him in Beijing in June.

The growing regional engagement reflects a pragmatic approach among neighboring states, which face security, trade and border concerns linked to Myanmar’s prolonged conflict. Vietnam’s decision to host the Myanmar leader could further strengthen his efforts to regain diplomatic acceptance in the region.

BOB Post