The Myanmar high-level delegation led by Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing paid a goodwill visit to the Russian Federation from 7 May at the invitation of President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin and attended the military parade to mark the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War 1941-1945 and related events.

The Myanmar high-level delegation led by the Senior General left Vnukovo International Airport in Moscow yesterday morning for the Republic of the Union of Myanmar by special aircraft.
On the way back to Myanmar, the Senior General replied to queries raised by the media onboard the special flight. The full text of the questions and answers was mentioned as follows: –

Q: Senior General, during the Myanmar-Russia goodwill visit from 3 to 9 May, the outcomes of the discussions and negotiations were highly beneficial for Myanmar. Now, regarding this trip to attend the military parade for the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, I would like to know what kind of benefits or results for our country.
Senior General: This ceremony is something the Russian people deeply value and take pride in. They sacrificed over 26 million lives fighting back against the fascist Nazis who invaded the Soviet Union, in order to reclaim their country’s sovereignty. That’s why they hold it in such high regard. It’s something we should also respect. Myanmar, too, has a history of resistance against fascism. There is a historical account of how Tatmadaw and the people united to fight for independence. It’s a proud and strong part of our history. Therefore, I would like to say that it is necessary for us to continue maintaining and carrying out this matter. Another point is that it’s clear that if the country’s defence capacity is strong, and if Tatmadaw is strong, then the nation itself will also be powerful.

It will also be necessary to further instil and promote patriotism and national pride among all citizens. Only then will all the people be able to contribute to Myanmar’s development and progress — that’s what I see.

Q: During the visit, we saw you met with national leaders who also attended the military parade. What were the notable highlights?”

Senior General: We had the opportunity to meet and have informal discussions with some State leaders, and we were also able to engage in formal talks. Especially from the perspective of Myanmar, I personally accept and support the move towards a multiparty democratic system. That is the direction we must go. I also explained to them that, following this path, we will be organizing a free and fair election by the end of this year.

I see that all meeting counterparts were supportive and expressed their support. Regarding Myanmar, we were able to explain the current situation and changes to some countries, and in other cases, it was more of an introductory meeting with some countries. Overall, I’d like to say that everything went well and all the meetings were positive.

Q: During the trip, we also saw that there was a meeting and discussion with the President of the People’s Republic of China, a neighbouring country of Myanmar. What would you like to say regarding this meeting and discussion?

Senior General: Myanmar and China are countries with close ties as the Pauk-Phaw relationship, like long-time friends. China is a strategic partner and also neighbouring country that cannot be separated. Diplomatic relations between the two nations have now surpassed 75 years. That’s why I would say China is a country with a special relationship with us. Regarding the Mandalay earthquake, the President also expressed his sorrow over the loss of life and damage suffered by the people. After the incident, he even sent me a message of condolence. He also sincerely stated that China will continue to assist in the reconstruction efforts following the earthquake. He expressed strong support for Myanmar’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and development. He also told us that he supports Myanmar’s peace and stability, as well as its development. As for me, I stated our firm position on the Belt and Road Initiative and that Myanmar is actively committed to participating in it. I was also able to briefly explain the current situation in Myanmar. Furthermore, I had discussions regarding the promotion and implementation of the China-Myanmar-Bangladesh economic corridor. Then, regarding the upcoming multiparty democratic elections to be held in Myanmar, he reaffirmed his support and encouragement for Myanmar’s preparations and the electoral process. I would also like to say that our meeting and discussion yielded good and positive outcomes.

MNA/TTA

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