Russia Seeks Deeper Ties with Myanmar in Trade and Nuclear Energy
The Russian government has announced plans to expand cooperation with Myanmar in various sectors, including agriculture and nuclear energy, despite the ongoing military junta's authoritarian rule. Moscow sees significant potential for increased trade and investment opportunities with the Southeast Asian nation, which has been plagued by instability since a 2021 coup d'état. The Kremlin's efforts to strengthen ties with Myanmar aim to counterbalance China's growing influence in the region.
- The strategic significance of Russia's overture to Myanmar lies in its potential to expand Moscow's economic and military footprint in Southeast Asia, potentially challenging China's dominance in the region.
- How will the international community, including Western nations, respond to Russia's efforts to strengthen ties with Myanmar, particularly given the country's poor human rights record?