Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing, who previously led the country’s military junta, has arrived in India for a five-day official visit. This marks his first foreign trip since assuming the presidency. During the visit, he is scheduled to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and hold discussions with business representatives.

Min Aung Hlaing seized power on February 1, 2021, ousting the elected civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. Following the coup, ASEAN barred Myanmar’s generals from its top summits, leaving the military-led administration increasingly isolated. Analysts view this visit as an opportunity for India to counterbalance China’s growing influence in Myanmar, secure access to the country’s rare mineral resources, and strengthen security along the northeastern border.

According to Crisis Group adviser Richard Horsey, Min Aung Hlaing aims to expand diplomatic engagement across the region and normalize ties with ASEAN, with support from Thailand and other member states. He may also visit Beijing soon to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, while India remains another key neighbor for Myanmar.