Is Donald Trump ready to do business with Myanmar?
By Jonathan Head, South East Asia correspondent
A top US official recently met with Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing for the first time in years. Has Washington's policy of isolating the military regime changed?
The recent revelation suggests a shift: a meeting between US Assistant Secretary of State for Intelligence and Research Michael Vance and Min Aung Hlaing in Myanmar's capital Nay Pyi Taw on September 15-16, and the removal of some business figures from US sanctions.
Until now, the US had limited official contact with the regime following the 2021 coup, when Aung San Suu Kyi was ousted. Sanctions were targeted at those supporting the junta.
The September meeting, focused on securing the release of US citizen Adam Castillo, also discussed other matters of mutual interest, given Vance's subsequent meetings with Burmese officials in Tokyo and his contact with opposition groups.
Signs of a policy shift go back to July 2020, when President Trump threatened Myanmar with 40% tariffs, citing its shattered economy. Min Aung Hlaing responded with flattery, appreciating Trump's "strong leadership" and "true patriot" spirit.
This was significant as Min Aung Hlaing's coup and ensuing civil war made him an international pariah.
In light of these developments, the US appears to be navigating a complex landscape in Myanmar, balancing pressure on the regime with potential opportunities for engagement and business.