Myanmar seeks to strengthen and sustain balanced diplomatic ties with both China and the United States.
Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing received the RT news agency of the Russian Federation at the lounge of Ararat Park Hotel in Moscow on 8 May 2025 and replied to queries. The full text of the interview is as follows: –
Q: Distinguished Your Excellency, Prime Minister of Myanmar. First of all, I would like to express my honour at having the opportunity to interview Your Excellency. I would also like to express my gratitude for your attendance to attend this grand 80th anniversary celebration of our country’s patriotic victory. This celebration holds great significance for our country, Russia, and I understand that it also holds deep meaning for Myanmar, which stood against fascism during that time. At the same time, I am aware that Myanmar has recently suffered losses and damage due to an earthquake. I would like to express my condolences in that regard. My first question is: What do you make remarks about providing assistance and support for your country concerning this earthquake? How effective has the rescue and relief effort been? Has the response been swift? Have things been going smoothly overall? I’d like to know it.
A: First of all, we would like to express our gratitude to you for offering your condolences regarding the powerful earthquake that struck on 28 March. The earthquake was indeed very strong — it measured 7.7 on the Richter scale. Among the earthquakes that have occurred since the 1900s, this is the second most powerful. Out of the 18 significant quakes we’ve experienced, the one in 1912 was the strongest, at 8.0 on the Richter scale. This recent earthquake was extremely powerful and caused significant loss and damage. Over 3,700 people have died, and more than 5,000 were injured. About 80 people are still missing. Around 67,000 homes have been destroyed. Approximately 6,400 schools and around 350 hospitals and clinics were damaged. Many roads and bridges have also been destroyed. When I visited the affected areas, I witnessed the devastation firsthand. Due to the severity of the damage, we declared a state of emergency within a matter of hours. I also called for international assistance, which began arriving within 24 hours. That level of support is something for which we are truly grateful. Around 26 countries from around the world, including Russia, China, and India, have come to help. It happened within 72 hours. According to their procedure, if they can rescue someone within 72 hours, that person still has a chance to survive. However, they arrived within 24 hours. We managed to save eight people alive. After that, there were many dead bodies. There are indeed many casualties. Regardless, the help is very encouraging and gives us strength. Another thing is the rescue equipment. All of that arrived by aeroplanes, then ships, and motor vehicles. So, it provides support to the country. However, we still have a lot of work to do in terms of clearing debris and reconstruction. I believe even more assistance will be needed beyond this.
Q: Currently, we know that the relationship between Myanmar and Russia is developing rapidly. I myself have also visited Myanmar to the gather information during the joint military exercises conducted by the Russian-Myanmar navies. What I would like to know further is not only about the military-technical cooperation between Myanmar and Russia, but also in which other fields and sectors they are collaborating. I want to know in which areas they are cooperating.
A: The area of cooperation between Russia and Myanmar is quite broad. As you mentioned earlier, it’s not just limited to the defence sector. We’re also working together in science and technology, as well as in other fields like the economy, legal affairs, education, and health. There are many areas where discussions are ongoing. During my visit this past March, we had the opportunity to discuss several matters, such as the construction of a nuclear power plant, the development of the Dawei deep-sea port, and investment in offshore oil and gas production. Some agreements have already been reached, and some projects are already underway. I’d like to emphasize that there are still many more areas where we need to continue our cooperation.
Q: As far as I know, instead of helping Myanmar in response to the recent earthquake, the United States has actually tightened trade sanctions by up to 44 per cent. I would like to hear your opinion on this matter.
A: What we’re seeing from the US is that it’s not like they’re not offering any assistance regarding the earthquake. They did announce that they would provide help — they pledged $9 million. But how exactly they’re going to provide it, we don’t know yet. Will it be through the United Nations or through the AHA Centre (ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance Centre)? We’re not sure. But the announcement to provide aid has been made. In terms of trade between us and the United States, there isn’t much going on. From 2011 to 2025, our total trade volume was only around $900 million. That averages to roughly over $80 million a year. In some years, our exports to them were higher, and in other years, their exports to us were higher. As for tariffs, it’s not like they only impose them on our country. They also impose some tariffs on their allied nations. They’ve imposed quite significant tariffs on China, or example. So, as a developing country, I believe it shouldn’t be subjected to increased tariffs. What’s happening is that because they’re facing a trade deficit, they’re increasing tariffs not just on us but on other countries, too. But I believe imposing such tariffs isn’t appropriate. As for why they’re doing it, we need to analyze and consider that in more detail.
Q: I’d like to raise one more question. Regarding trade sanctions and interest rates, what kind of response plan does Myanmar have in place? May I know how you have made preparations?
A: Primarily, we will emphasize trading without emphasizing a single country, and we will trade with many countries. Instead of going to just one country and selling our goods there, it’s better to trade with many countries equally. I think that it is better for cooperation too. What I want to add is — why are they increasing tariffs like this? That’s something we have to consider as well. They say they’re increasing tariffs because they’re losing money from trade. Then the question is, why are they losing money? Is it because they can’t sell their products? Why can’t they sell them? Products of the United States are being sold. These products are good and of high quality. But their prices are high. As prices are high, it becomes a bit difficult for all to buy their products. However, I’ve found that in many countries, including developing nations like ours, the demand of the market of the United States market is very strong. That’s why we’re able to sell a lot to them. But we should also think about why their goods are expensive. Is it because of the cost of production? If that’s the case, we need to take those factors into account. Based on that, we might need to make adjustments. Rather than relying on just one country, we should sell our goods to other countries as well. What I’ve seen is that many of us heavily depend on their market. That’s something I believe is worth thinking about.
A: Primarily, we will emphasize trading without emphasizing a single country, and we will trade with many countries. Instead of going to just one country and selling our goods there, it’s better to trade with many countries equally. I think that it is better for cooperation too. What I want to add is — why are they increasing tariffs like this? That’s something we have to consider as well. They say they’re increasing tariffs because they’re losing money from trade. Then the question is, why are they losing money? Is it because they can’t sell their products? Why can’t they sell them? Products of the United States are being sold. These products are good and of high quality. But their prices are high. As prices are high, it becomes a bit difficult for all to buy their products. However, I’ve found that in many countries, including developing nations like ours, the demand of the market of the United States market is very strong. That’s why we’re able to sell a lot to them. But we should also think about why their goods are expensive. Is it because of the cost of production? If that’s the case, we need to take those factors into account. Based on that, we might need to make adjustments. Rather than relying on just one country, we should sell our goods to other countries as well. What I’ve seen is that many of us heavily depend on their market. That’s something I believe is worth thinking about.
Q: I have heard that Your Excellency arrived in the Russian Federation to join the anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. As it is the 80th anniversary celebration, our Russian Federation notably marks it. Regarding this commemorative event, the question I’d like to ask is: The victory was achieved 80 years ago. How has that victory influenced or transformed the current geopolitical landscape we see today? I’d also like to hear your perspective on this.
A: This is a commemoration of the victory achieved by the people of the Soviet Union over the Fascist Nazis. It’s a deeply significant event. Similarly, in Myanmar, we too suffered under the oppression of fascist Japan, which was allied with the Nazi Germans — both part of the same fascist bloc. We also have a history of fighting back against them. These events happened around the same period. This was a struggle aimed at securing independence and firmly establishing our nation’s sovereignty. That’s why I would like to say that this was an extremely significant battle, an offensive. Because of this successful resistance, we witnessed the liberation of some European countries that had previously been subjected to colonial-style domination and occupation. They regained their independence because the Soviet Union led and launched a counteroffensive that helped liberate them. The Soviet troops even advanced and took control up to East Berlin in Germany. I saw it in history. And then, it is geopolitics. If we look at the events of the past, those historical developments were also driven by geopolitical factors – firstly, geography itself, and secondly, the natural resources, both above ground and underground. It was all rooted in these factors. Geopolitics plays a crucial role. Even now, we can see that because of geopolitics, powerful nations are still targeting smaller or other countries. What can they do to those smaller nations? As a result, we observe pressure being applied through military, political, economic, and various other means over these countries. Now, the celebration of the 80th anniversary of this heroic patriotic war is truly a remarkable occasion. During that war, 26 million Soviet and Russian people gave their lives in the fight. In the history of world wars, I would like to say this was one of the most massive offensives with the largest casualties.
Q: Regarding our history, during the Second World War, the Soviet Union led the fight to victory with great success. This is a factual part of history. However, Western countries want to revise this history by portraying themselves, through videos and historical documentaries, as the main victors and key contributors in that war. Especially about the current Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Western media is depicting Russia as the aggressor. So, what I want to know is why Western countries want to rewrite the history that you witnessed? And how do you see this situation from your perspective?
A: History cannot be lied about, and it cannot be concealed. History must remain as it truly was. Just as the actions of the fascist Nazis cannot be hidden, neither can the history of the Soviet Union fighting against fascism be erased or concealed. It cannot be rewritten either. History must exist in its entirety, as it actually happened. This is undeniable. That’s why some countries may want to revise history to prevent future generations from knowing about the wrongs they committed. They might want to push towards a ‘New World Order’. They might also want to steer the younger generations in that direction. When it comes to national sovereignty, many won’t act unless it threatens them. But once their sovereignty is at risk, a response becomes natural. Another factor is their desires and egos. When these emerge, they seek out problems and talk about them, trying to solve them. We’ve seen such things in real, historical events around the world. Even looking at the recent conflict between Ukraine and Russia, it’s the same. To speak frankly, I see efforts to rewrite or reverse history. Russia is trying to draw from the Soviet Union’s past experiences to act in ways that protect its sovereignty and avoid any threats to its authority.
Q: What we would like to ask next is about the situation in Ukraine. We understand that Western countries, especially the EU and the UK, have been continuously providing financial and military support behind the scenes. What is your view on this matter? The whole world knows that Washington has been pushing for a diplomatic resolution regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict. However, the EU member countries and the UK seem to be continuing their support through military aid, arms supplies, and financial assistance, rather than offering effective diplomatic solutions. We would like to know your opinion on this as well.
A: War is something that is best avoided. When it comes to conflict, the best approach is to resolve it properly and effectively through negotiation and peaceful means. When conflicts escalate, it’s usually because there is support and backing from others. If there is no external support, conflicts don’t usually grow that large. Sometimes, it may be an issue between two countries, but when others rally around and support one side — providing backing, assistance, military weapons, financial aid, food supplies, and so on — that’s when the conflict grows bigger. This is what has been happening. So, to avoid this kind of escalation, the best course of action is not to provide such support. These issues should be resolved politically. That’s the direction we should be heading. Earlier, you asked about the EU and their involvement in the conflict — what their intentions are. What is their aim? Is it to prolong the conflict and ultimately lead to war? That’s something to consider. In reality, doing everything we can to prevent conflict in the first place is the best approach. I believe it should not be supporting or backing either side in such situations. Instead, they should engage in negotiation. Why did the problem arise in the first place? We need to look for the root cause of the issue. It’s something that has existed in history. If we look at the situation that has unfolded over the past one or two decades, there is a clear answer as to why the Ukraine-Russia issue has developed. If they address the issue based on the correct situations accordingly, I believe the problem can be resolved.
Q: Building on the previous question, what I’d like to ask next is: some countries are concerned that after the Ukraine conflict is resolved, the US might increase confrontations with China. Given that, should we be expecting some form of military tensions to arise shortly?
A: There is also a possibility. Why? Since the post-1950s period, the US has historically begun implementing a China containment policy. Now, China has become its competitor. When China and the US become rivals, no matter what is said, I believe the US will try to counterbalance and respond to that competition. That’s why I think it’s important for countries to coordinate and engage in dialogue to prevent this from escalating. This isn’t just about the two countries. Other countries are involved too. If it were only between the US and China, the problem might not be that big. But when more countries get involved, the situation becomes more complicated. That’s how I see it.
Q: Regarding what Your Excellency just mentioned, I understand that this issue is not merely a problem between China and the United States, but that it could escalate further if extremist territories get involved. With this, from Myanmar’s standpoint, as tensions rise among the world’s major powers, how can Myanmar play a role in mediating or easing these tensions? Also, I would like to hear Your Excellency’s perspective on how Myanmar is planning or preparing to do so.
A: Myanmar’s foreign policy is independent and active. It maintains friendly relations with all countries. The United States is considered a friendly nation to Myanmar. However, China is not only one of our neighbouring countries, but also a strategic partner. It is a country with which we share a special relationship — one that is closer than with many others. Therefore, from our side, we aim to engage and maintain the best relations with both countries.
Q: In the Asia-Pacific region, how do you assess the increasing involvement related to NATO? In such a region, especially in areas concerning Myanmar, do you think that the growing power could potentially pose a threat? I would also like to know your thoughts on this matter.
A: Oh, the worry is real. It doesn’t really have anything to do with this. The Asia-Pacific region and NATO are not related at all. But, we are worried about it. I want to say it really doesn’t concern us. This region, called Asia-Pacific, is a hilly and coastal area. The Pacific region includes hills, seas, and oceanic areas combined into one region. No matter what, it is an important place strategically. If it can be handled peacefully, it would be a very beneficial thing for the world. However, I see powerful countries – like I mentioned earlier, it’s not just NATO – India, Australia, Japan, and the United States are also working together to maintain their influence here. I believe these things will only make conflicts bigger. That’s why I think the best way is to proceed peacefully. The worry is real, yes, I do worry.
Q: Along with this, the question I want to ask is: While many Western countries are trying to exert influence and maintain control, what is your perspective on the concept of multipolarity, which is a liberal principle that could shape the future of international relations? Currently, Western countries dominate and pressure other nations according to their interests and desires as much as they can. Regarding this, I would like to know your views on the liberal principle of multipolarity.
A: In the past, the world was controlled by a Unipolar system led by the United States and its Western allies. Later, it became Bipolar. After being Bipolar for a while, it shifted back to Unipolar again. This meant the Western countries had the upper hand. However, in this era, countries like Russia, China, and India have made significant progress militarily, economically, and in science and technology. As they have advanced, we have moved toward a Multipolar world. This is something that should happen. One country alone can’t control the whole world. Especially developing countries like ours have suffered greatly under that system. Therefore, moving toward a Multipolar system is the best option. Sharing the world’s affairs and responsibilities fairly is the best way. Acting justly is also the best way. Sharing and cooperating are the best way. The conflicts happening now are only because things are not shared and balanced. So, if we want to avoid conflicts, I believe the Multipolar system is the best way.
Q: From my perspective, regarding the Multipolar World, the question I want to ask is this: It is known that many countries, including Myanmar, support the concept of a Multipolar World. Related to this, Western countries seem to want to return to their previous Unipolar World. In light of this, how do you think countries like Myanmar and others can successfully implement and move toward a Multipolar World, and at the same time, what kind of strategies should be applied to prevent or remove the return to a Unipolar World? I would like to hear your thoughts and beliefs on this matter.
A: What I was just saying is that there are three countries. Yes, three countries. These three countries, we see, are also nations that operate fairly and equally in the world. So, we need to cooperate with them, and each of us must also put in effort ourselves. We can’t succeed without trying on our own. We also need to develop and improve our own economy, techniques, and so on. On the other hand, there’s also a need for more cooperation between countries. These countries I have mentioned – because they are among the top leading nations in the world – like your countries, Russia, China, India, and others – if these leading nations work together cooperatively and fairly, then multipolarity will become global. None of us can accept this unipolar situation. Every country that has gone through this hardship knows all about it. We know the bitter taste of being oppressed. That’s why no one is willing to just accept the status quo anymore. All the countries are trying their best, because if they stop, they will lag behind others. If they stand firm and persist, they will survive. The ones who walk away will just be left behind. So everyone is moving forward. Because they are working to develop themselves, based on the history and past events I mentioned earlier, all countries have the determination to prevent this kind of situation from happening to them. At that time, if the leading countries join together and act, I believe that unipolar dominance will never come about.
Q: Myanmar is known as one of the member countries of ASEAN. Being an ASEAN member means being part of a powerful regional organization. As for Myanmar, what kind of role or part are we playing within the ASEAN community?
A: As a member country of ASEAN, we fully cooperate in pursuit of ASEAN’s charter. ASEAN’s objectives are truly good intentions. Therefore, as Myanmar, we also have the desire to act correctly and on the right path. We are indeed taking action. Although there are differences in perspectives between ASEAN member countries, the fundamental principles already exist. What is important, I want to say, is to be able to act based on these fundamental principles.
Q: What we want to ask continuously is, as ASEAN member countries, how do you see the future relationship between the ASEAN organization and Russia?
A: I want to say that Russia is an important country for ASEAN. From 2024 to 2027, our country will be responsible for coordinating relations between ASEAN and Russia. Previously, we did similar work with China, and China also cooperated very successfully. Now, regarding Russia, we are taking responsibility as a coordinating country. Because Russia is one of our friendly countries, we also wish to improve relations between Russia and ASEAN.
Russia is an important country for ASEAN and is already among the dialogue partners. Therefore, in the future, we believe Russia will hold an important position in cooperation with ASEAN. On the other hand, what I want to say Russia should also consider and work on expanding cooperation with ASEAN countries across various sectors.
Q: For me, this is no longer related to politics. I would like to ask a question related to our news agency. Our RT news agency has been operating for about 20 years. I would also like to know your perspective regarding the RT news agency, its activities, and the news it releases.
A: As for RT’s news agency, it is truly a top-tier news organization, and their news presentation is also quite good. I often watch RT myself. RT’s news coverage is solid and reliable in many ways. They can speak comprehensively about the content. When it comes to presenting background or historical context, it is necessary to learn, as RT also reveals and reports in various ways. I have gained a lot of knowledge from them. Because of that, I see RT as a really good and high-level news agency. Over the past 20 years, RT’s successes have continued, and I wish it even greater success moving forward. Aside from fostering Russian-Myanmar friendship, I believe RT will also help improve the relationship between Russia and the world. I sincerely wish RT even more success.
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