Myanmar's military leader meets with Russian president to discuss bilateral relations

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Myanmar’s military leader, General Min Aung Hlaing, in Moscow to discuss bilateral ties.

Opening the meeting, Putin highlighted that this year marks the 25th anniversary of the declaration of friendship between Russia and Myanmar.

"Our relations are truly developing. Last year, bilateral trade turnover grew by 40%—a strong indicator of our potential," he noted.

Putin also expressed gratitude for an unusual gift from Myanmar’s leadership—six elephants, presented last year.

General Min reaffirmed Myanmar’s support for Russia in the war in Ukraine and gifted Putin an 1838 book predicting strong ties between the two nations.

Before meeting with Putin, Min held talks with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoygu, and other senior officials.