Myanmar junta sends more workers to Russia amid growing domestic instability

The Myanmar junta is actively strengthening its ties with Russia through increased labour exports and economic concessions, even as the country grapples with ongoing armed conflict, political instability and a devastating earthquake. On April 8, the regime sent its second group of workers to Russia as part of a pilot labour migration program, according to junta-controlled state media. This followed a previous deployment of 24 workers who were sent to the Russian Joint-Stock Company ‘Inturd’ on March 5 and an interpreter sent on March 22. The selection and processing of these workers were managed by Vista International Co., Ltd. in collaboration with the junta’s Ministry of Labour. Myanmar officials have stated that the program aims to create job opportunities abroad and enhance cooperation with Russia. However, the initiative appears to be part of a broader effort by the internationally isolated junta to gain support from Moscow amid internal challenges. Caption: Myanmar workers gather at Yangon International Airport as they prepare to leave for Russia on April 8 (Photo: Global New Light of Myanmar) During a recent visit to Moscow, coup leader Senior-General Min Aung Hlaing reportedly offered Russian investors preferential access to Myanmar’s mining sector, which is rich in jade, ruby, and sapphire. Many of these proposed investment opportunities are in active conflict zones. At the Russia-Myanmar Economic Forum, the regime outlined plans to issue mining licenses in areas such as Hpakant in Kachin State, Mogok in Mandalay Region, and parts of Sagaing Region and Shan State, all of which have seen significant clashes between the military and armed resistance groups. Myanmar’s economy is under significant strain due to international sanctions, a weakening currency, and widespread conflict. While traditional allies like China continue to support the junta, their relationship is complicated by Beijing’s ties to ethnic armed groups along the China-Myanmar border. As a result, the junta is turning to Russia for economic and military support. Upon his return from Moscow, Min Aung Hlaing stated that Russia is “the country that is best equipped to assist us in the near term” and defended his outreach as necessary for Myanmar’s economic survival. Russia has also been involved in providing aid to Myanmar following the devastating earthquake that struck the country on March 28. According to official reports, Russia has dispatched a team of over 120 rescuers, including canine units, and sent supplies to assist with the search and rescue efforts. Additionally, Russia reportedly sent medical teams and even a mobile hospital to provide aid to those affected by the magnitude-7.7 earthquake. https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/exclusive-myanmar-junta-invites-russia-to-extract-gems-minerals-in-active-conflict-areas/

Myanmar junta sends more workers to Russia amid growing domestic instability

The move comes as the regime strives to strengthen ties with an ally that has become increasingly important for its survival

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