Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing Inaugurated, Hopes to Overcome Challenges and Strengthen International Relations

Reuters reported that President Min Aung Hlaing stated in his inauguration speech to parliament today that peace and democracy are his top priorities, and his government will promote foreign investment, develop agriculture, and formulate effective and long-term strategic plans. A week ago, Min Aung Hlaing became president through a parliamentary election, consolidating his political power in this war-torn country. Five years ago, he launched a coup, plunging Myanmar into chaos. The process of Min Aung Hlaing transitioning from top general to civilian president was carefully orchestrated. Prior to this, a military-backed party won a landslide victory in the recent general election, but critics and Western governments derided the election as a fraud intended to perpetuate military rule under a democratic guise. The military led by Min Aung Hlaing launched a coup and subsequent crackdown, prompting intervention from ASEAN, an organization of 11 member states, which later banned Myanmar's junta leader from attending summits. Min Aung Hlaing delivered a speech of less than 20 minutes in the capital, Naypyitaw, with over 50 foreign guests in attendance. He said, "Myanmar is now steadily moving towards democracy, but the new government still faces many challenges to overcome." Min Aung Hlaing said, "The new government will implement a roadmap based on democracy and federalism... Our priority is democracy and peace." He later added, "We will strengthen international relations and strive to restore normal relations with ASEAN." (Compiled by: Zhang Xiao-wen) 1150410