Legitimacy

• Min Aung Hlaing, the leader of Myanmar's military-backed government, has arrived in Thailand for an official visit. • The visit follows Hlaing's swearing-in as president in April, after phased elections held in December and January. • The trip is seen as an attempt to gain political legitimacy and rehabilitation, despite critics dismissing the recent elections as a sham to maintain military control.

• Former junta chief and current Myanmar president, installed in April after disputed elections, is visiting Thailand for the first time as a civilian leader. • The visit occurs as fighting between the Myanmar military and rebel factions spills over the border, impacting Thailand, which hosts millions of refugees. • Thailand is currently leading efforts to normalize relations with Myanmar both bilaterally and through the 11-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

• Min Aung Hlaing, the leader of Myanmar's military-backed government, has arrived in Thailand for an official visit to seek political legitimacy. • The visit follows Hlaing's appointment as president in April, following a series of phased elections held in December and January. • Critics and observers have dismissed these elections as a sham intended to consolidate military power under the guise of restoring civilian rule.