CNI News
8 December 2025
Military and political analysts are assessing how the relationship between Belarusian President Lukashenko and Myanmar’s military leadership might impact Myanmar's political landscape.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko arrived in Myanmar on the evening of November 27 on a goodwill visit.
This was his first-ever trip to Myanmar. On November 28, he met with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing has visited Belarus twice before, and since 2023, Myanmar has been sending military officers for further training not only to Russia but also to Belarus.
According to political analyst Sai Mein, this growing connection between the Myanmar military and Belarus is likely aimed at strengthening the army:
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing meeting Belarusian President Lukashenko
“Myanmar’s military leader has already visited Belarus twice. The main purpose is to obtain military support.After travelling to Russia and Belarus, the military council’s strength has grown again.For example, even groups like the TNLA—who were performing very strongly—had to retreat from areas like Nawnghkio, Kyaukme, and Hsipaw and could not maintain their positions.The main idea is whether they can move from building hydropower plants to building arms factories.So the military council’s connection with Belarus seems clearly aimed at strengthening military capabilities.”
During the meeting, Myanmar expressed its intention to join the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) as a member and to work toward membership in BRICS and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing requested that Belarus continue supporting Myanmar’s efforts in these areas.
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing meeting Belarusian President Lukashenko
Both sides also discussed expanding cooperation in economic investment, education, healthcare, industry, agriculture, and military technology.
Myanmar will hold the first phase of its multi-party general election on December 28, 2025.
PNLO-NCA/S Chairman Colonel Khun Okka told CNI News that Lukashenko’s trip to Myanmar at this time also carries a message of Russian endorsement:
“This is reciprocal. Belarus is entering the picture based on the close strategic ties between Russia and Myanmar.If Russia cannot come directly, Belarus comes on Russia’s behalf. That shows Russia is supporting from behind.So it is mutual backing among them.Since the election is approaching, this visit can be seen as showing support for the upcoming election.”
President Lukashenko said that 2025 had been a memorable year for both countries.
He acknowledged that Myanmar would soon hold a historic election and stated the upcoming election was important for Myanmar.
He expressed his support for the election that Senior General Min Aung Hlaing plans to hold.
Both countries also signed several memoranda of understanding to enhance cooperation.
