Belarus, along with Russia and China, is one of the key allies and arms suppliers for the junta that took power in Myanmar in February 2021, overthrowing the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. Since then, the junta has been under sanctions by Western countries due to massive human rights violations. Previously, the only foreign leader to visit Myanmar after the coup was Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen in 2022.
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Why did Lukashenko visit Myanmar?
What agreements are to be signed during Lukashenko's visit?
Who was the only foreign leader to visit Myanmar before?
What role should Belarus play in the upcoming elections in Myanmar?
Lukashenko's visit is aimed at strengthening cooperation in various sectors. According to state media in Myanmar, new agreements and memorandums are to be signed during the meeting with the head of the junta, General Min Aung Hlaing. Hlaing has visited Belarus twice since taking power.
Elections in Myanmar. Belarusian observers will appear there
According to critics, the Belarusian leader's visit is aimed at legitimizing the parliamentary elections in Myanmar scheduled for December, which are widely considered to be an attempt to consolidate military rule. In March, Lukashenko committed to sending Belarusian election observers.
The human rights organization Justice For Myanmar warns that Belarus provides the Myanmar army with advanced military equipment, including air defense systems, radars and missiles, which strengthens its combat capabilities and the domestic arms industry.
