With Laos Trip, Min Aung Hlaing Drives a Wedge Into ASEAN

Min Aung Hlaing's first official visit to Laos since taking office in April signals a potential shift in regional dynamics within ASEAN. This visit, amidst Myanmar's ongoing political turmoil and international isolation, risks exacerbating tensions within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. By engaging with Laos, Hlaing aims to solidify diplomatic ties and assert Myanmar's presence in regional affairs, which could alienate other ASEAN members wary of his controversial leadership and human rights record. This move underscores the complex challenges facing ASEAN as it navigates internal dissent and external pressures.