Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing visited India and held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking his first trip abroad as president. He also made a five‑day visit to China at the invitation of Chinese leader Xi Jinping, his first trip to China since his election as president.

India said it would continue engaging with Myanmar after the talks, despite Western sanctions imposed after the 2021 coup (Bluesky). India and Myanmar agreed to increase cooperation in trade, energy and defence (SCMP). Myanmar opposition groups criticised India for hosting Min Aung Hlaing, while India said engagement was the best way forward (Al Jazeera).

According to the Bangkok Post, Min Aung Hlaing planned to visit Laos, his first ASEAN member‑state visit. The Hindu reported that his visit began in Bodh Gaya, where he was expected to offer prayers at the Maha Bodhi temple and meet resident Myanmar nationals and monks. The BBC noted that Myanmar is seeking to broaden diplomatic engagement after years of international criticism and isolation. NPR said Myanmar’s new government is trying to consolidate its political position regionally while continuing to wage a brutal civil war.

Analysts said there was little reason to think the visits would erode Beijing’s overarching influence (SCMP). The exiled Myanmar government described Min Aung Hlaing as a terrorist junta leader (Hindu).